Farsightedness is having a harder time seeing an object that are close than things that are far away.
Causes
Farsightedness is the result of the visual image being focused behind the retina rather than directly on it. It
may be caused by the eyeball being too small or the focusing power being too weak.
Farsightedness is often present from birth. However, children have a very flexible eye lens, which helps make
up for the problem. As aging occurs, glasses or contact lenses may be needed to correct the vision. If you
have family members who are farsighted, you are also more likely to become farsighted.
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
Aching eyes
Blurred vision when looking at close objects
Crossed eyes (strabismus) in some children
Eyestrain
Headache while reading
Mild farsightedness may not cause any problems. However, you may need reading glasses.
Exams and Tests
A general eye exam to diagnose farsightedness may include the following tests:
Eye movement testing
Glaucoma testing
Refraction test
Retinal examination
Slit-lamp examination
Visual acuity
This list is not all-inclusive.
Treatment
Farsightedness is easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses. Surgery is available for correcting
farsightedness in adults. This is an option for those who do not wish to wear glasses or contacts.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outcome is expected to be good.
Possible Complications
Farsightedness can be a risk factor for glaucoma and crossed eyes.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider or eye doctor if you have symptoms of farsightedness and you have not had a
recent eye exam.
Also, call if vision begins to get worse after you have been diagnosed with farsightedness.
See a provider right away if you think you have farsightedness and you suddenly develop the following
symptoms:
Severe eye pain
Eye redness
Decreased vision