Hyperopia (Farsightedness) Treatment in Chicago, IL
Hyperopia — commonly known as farsightedness — is a refractive error that makes it difficult to focus on close objects, and in more significant cases, affects distance vision as well. At Ideal Family Eye Care, our experienced optometrists provide accurate diagnosis and a full range of correction options to help patients of all ages achieve clear, comfortable vision at every distance.
request an appointmentWhat Is Hyperopia (Farsightedness)?
Hyperopia occurs when the eyeball is shorter than normal, or the cornea has too little curvature, causing light entering the eye to focus behind the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurry near vision and, in more significant cases, blurry distance vision as well. Young people with mild hyperopia may be able to compensate by increasing the effort of their focusing muscles (a process called accommodation), often without realizing they have a refractive error — but this constant extra effort leads to eye strain, headaches, and fatigue.
Hyperopia is very common and often present from birth. Children frequently outgrow mild hyperopia as their eyes grow and lengthen naturally. However, moderate to significant hyperopia that persists through childhood requires correction to prevent associated problems such as eye strain, amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (crossed eyes).
Symptoms of Hyperopia
Symptoms of hyperopia include blurry vision when reading or doing close-up work, headaches after sustained near tasks, eye strain or aching around the eyes, squinting or difficulty concentrating on near objects, and general visual fatigue. In children, hyperopia can contribute to amblyopia and strabismus if left undetected, making regular pediatric eye exams essential. A comprehensive eye exam at Ideal Family Eye Care will accurately measure the degree of your hyperopia and determine the best treatment approach.
Hyperopia Treatment Options at Ideal Family Eye Care
Treatment for hyperopia at Ideal Family Eye Care is tailored to the severity of the refractive error and the patient’s age and lifestyle. Options include:
- Prescription eyeglasses: The most straightforward solution for hyperopia, using convex lenses to redirect light correctly onto the retina. We carry an extensive selection of frames and lens options including progressive lenses for patients who also need near vision correction.
- Contact lenses: Soft contact lenses for hyperopia are available in daily, biweekly, and monthly wear options. Toric contact lenses can address hyperopia combined with astigmatism.
- LASIK surgery: For eligible adult patients, LASIK can permanently correct hyperopia by reshaping the cornea. Our providers offer comprehensive LASIK consultations and manage all pre- and post-operative care.
To schedule your hyperopia evaluation at Ideal Family Eye Care in Chicago, IL , call us at (773) 774-2200 or book your appointment online today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
What is hyperopia and how is it different from myopia?
Hyperopia (farsightedness) causes difficulty focusing on close objects and occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea too flat. Myopia (nearsightedness) causes blurry distance vision and occurs when the eyeball is too long. Both are refractive errors correctable with glasses, contacts, or surgery.
Can children have hyperopia?
Yes. Hyperopia is very common in young children, and many infants are naturally farsighted. Mild cases often resolve as the eyes grow. However, significant hyperopia in children requires correction to prevent amblyopia and strabismus. Regular pediatric eye exams at Ideal Family Eye Care are essential for detecting and monitoring hyperopia in children.
Can hyperopia cause headaches?
Yes. Because farsighted eyes must work harder to focus on near objects, patients with undiagnosed or uncorrected hyperopia frequently experience headaches — especially after reading, using a computer, or doing close-up work. Correcting the refractive error with glasses or contacts typically resolves these symptoms.
Does hyperopia get worse with age?
The ability to compensate for hyperopia naturally decreases with age as the lens of the eye loses its flexibility (a process called presbyopia). Patients who may have had mild farsightedness without symptoms in their younger years often find that near vision becomes increasingly difficult in their 40s and beyond. Regular eye exams at Ideal Family Eye Care ensure your prescription stays current.
Can LASIK correct hyperopia?
Yes. LASIK can effectively correct mild to moderate hyperopia in eligible adult patients. At Ideal Family Eye Care, we provide comprehensive LASIK consultations to evaluate your candidacy and co-manage all stages of your care.
Is hyperopia the same as presbyopia?
No. Hyperopia is a refractive error present from birth or early childhood caused by the shape of the eye. Presbyopia is an age-related condition in which the natural lens of the eye stiffens with age, reducing the ability to focus on close objects. Both cause difficulty with near vision but have different causes and may require different treatment approaches.
How do I schedule a hyperopia evaluation at Ideal Family Eye Care?
Call Ideal Family Eye Care at (773) 774-2200 or use our online booking tool to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Our providers will accurately measure your hyperopia and recommend the best correction option for your needs.