Hyperopia & Astigmatism

A: Also known as far/longsightedness, it is a refractive error where distant objects are seen more clearly than nearby objects.

A: Hyperopia is typically caused by an eyeball that is shorter than normal leading to light being behind the retina rather than directly on it.

A: The main risk factors are family history and prematurity.

A: As young children usually do not report symptoms, some signs are avoidance of near work, delayed developmental milestones, and unusual visual behaviour (squinting and rubbing of eyes and “blinkiness”).

A: Glasses and contact lenses.

A: Hyperopia is a common finding and can self-resolve or “emmetropise” as young children grow; however, regular check-ups are important to monitor the rate of change.

A: It usually occurs when the cornea is oval-shaped, rather than spherical, causing light to focus on multiple points rather than a single point on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.

A: Squinting, eye strain, difficulty focusing on objects, frequent eye rubbing, headaches, and tilting of the head to see clearly.

A: Glasses and contact lenses. Full or part-time depending on severity and symptoms.

A: Usually, no.