What Are Nearsightedness and Farsightedness?

Nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia) are two of the most common refractive errors that affect vision. Although both impact visual clarity, their causes and the way each condition affects how you see are quite different. Understanding these differences is essential so you can take the right steps to maintain your eye health and choose appropriate treatment.

Nearsightedness: Blurry Vision at a Distance

Nearsightedness occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea’s curvature is too steep, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. As a result, distant objects look blurry while close ones remain clear.

Common symptoms of nearsightedness include:

• Blurred vision when looking at distant objects like a whiteboard, street signs, or TV screens.
• Squinting frequently to see clearly.
• Experiencing headaches or eye strain after looking far away for extended periods.

Farsightedness: Blurry Vision Up Close

In contrast, farsightedness happens when the eyeball is too short or the cornea is too flat, causing light to focus behind the retina. This results in blurred vision when looking at close objects, while distant vision remains clear.

Common symptoms of farsightedness include:

• Difficulty reading books, using smartphones, or focusing on nearby tasks.
• Eyes feeling tired quickly or headaches after prolonged close-up work.
• Trouble maintaining focus on close items.

Causes of Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

• Genetics: Family history plays a significant role. If parents have nearsightedness or farsightedness, children are more likely to inherit the condition.
• Age: Farsightedness is more common in children and often improves as they grow, while nearsightedness tends to develop during schooling years.
• Visual Habits: Spending long hours focusing on close objects, such as reading or screen time, can worsen nearsightedness.
• Eye Health: Certain health conditions, like diabetes, may affect eye refraction.

Simple Ways to Distinguish Between Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

• Notice which is clearer: if close objects are clear but distant objects are blurry, it’s likely nearsightedness.
• If distant objects are clear but close ones are blurry, it’s probably farsightedness.
• For an accurate diagnosis, always consult an eye specialist.

Treatment for Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

• Glasses or Contact Lenses: These are the most common treatments to correct vision by properly focusing light onto the retina.
• Refractive Surgery: Procedures such as LASIK or PRK may be options for some cases.
• Therapy and Eye Exercises: These can help strengthen eye muscles and reduce strain.

Understanding the difference between nearsightedness and farsightedness helps you pick the right treatment and protect your vision. If you experience blurry vision at any distance, don’t hesitate to get your eyes checked.