Farsightedness

Alternative names:

hyperopia

Definition:

An error of visual focusing that causes difficulty in seeing near objects.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Farsightedness is the result of the visual image being focused behind the retina rather than directly on it. It may be caused from the eyeball being too short from front to back or the lens being too weak. Farsightedness is often present from birth, and children can often overcome a mild condition through adjustment of the eye (accommodation). As aging occurs, glasses or contact lenses are required to correct vision. A family history of farsightedness is a risk factor.