Hyperopia and Your Child

Does it seem that your child is constantly below grade level in reading? Do they frequently complain of headaches and tired or sore eyes after doing close-up activities like writing or using a computer? They may have hyperopia, also known as farsightedness.

What Is Hyperopia and What Causes It?

Hyperopia (farsightedness) is a common condition that affects people of all ages. In a healthy eye, light and other visual information enters through the lens and pupil, and is focused on the back of the eye, known as the retina. With hyperopia, however, the eye is shaped differently, causing light to focus too far back, beyond the retina, resulting in blurry near vision while distant objects remain clearer.

Hyperopia occurs when the cornea is less curved than normal, the eyeball is shorter than normal, or the lens is thinner than normal. It is largely a condition inherited from one's parents.

Symptoms of Hyperopia in Children

Hyperopia often goes undetected because children are very good at compensating for their farsightedness. However, it can still cause eye strain, fatigue, and headaches. Signs and symptoms include: holding books or devices at arm's length, difficulties with reading and learning, constant squinting, and complaints about blurry close-up vision while distance vision remains clear.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Hyperopia

Regular eye exams can help diagnose hyperopia early. Treatment options include:

• Eyeglasses — The most common treatment for hyperopia in children. Those with more severe hyperopia will need to wear glasses full time.
• Bifocal/Multifocal Glasses — Usually reserved for severe cases involving visual focusing difficulties.
• Contact Lenses — Generally reserved for older children who can responsibly handle lens care.

Want to learn more about hyperopia and how we can help treat it? Contact St. Clairsville Eyecare in St. Clairsville today. Call (740) 695-0444.