Do you have issues with your sight at certain distances? If so, you may have nearsightedness or farsightedness. These conditions occur due to the shape of your eye and how light is transferred to the retina. This post will discuss what it means to be nearsighted or farsighted, how they can be treated and eye health.
Nearsighted (myopia)
The official name for nearsightedness is myopia. Myopia means that you can see objects up close but they get fuzzier the farther away they are. This means that you can most likely read a book but struggle to see signs far away. When you have myopia, your eyeball is too long which is what makes the retina unable to focus properly.
According to Optical Masters, nearsightedness can also be caused by the curvature of the lens. If your lens is too curved, it can throw off the focusing point. Myopia can be caused by genetics.
Farsighted (hyperopia)
The official name for farsightedness is hyperopia. Farsightedness is the opposite of nearsightedness so you can see objects far away but they are blurry up close. The symptoms of farsightedness can include getting headaches after prolonged use of close up vision and agitation after focusing on one close-up task for too long.
With hyperopia, the eyeball is too short or doesn’t have enough curvature to focus properly. Hyperopia is less common than myopia and harder to detect. It is important to get a proper eye exam if you are having difficulties with your vision.
Eye problems and eyesight troubles are common, especially with old age. Many eye problems are treatable, if not curable.
What does this mean for me?
To be nearsighted or farsighted does not mean much besides affecting how you see things. Because these conditions are so easily treated, you do not have to go your whole life without being able to see properly.
When looking at the science behind the two conditions, they each mean two different things. Myopia means that light and visual image focuses in front of the retina. Hyperopia means that light and visual image focuses behind the retina.
Myopia and hyperopia can occur in combination with astigmatism. Conditions such as these can be caused by genetics but they can also occur due to environmental causes: up close reading, frequent use of personal electronic devices and similar activities that require your eyes to focus up close for long periods of time.
Treatment Options
Corrective lenses are the first treatment for your hyperopia or myopia. They make these eye conditions much more manageable. Another option is to stick with eyeglasses that will do the trick as well.
The second treatment option for nearsightedness or farsightedness is to get lasik surgery. Lasik is corrective eye laser surgery that uses a laser to reshape your cornea, therefore correcting your vision problems. This is a more permanent option for people looking to avoid lenses or glasses.
Eye Health
Eye health should be taken very seriously. Here are some tips to maintain good eye health.
- Eat Well - Believe it or not, what you put on your plate can determine your eye health. Make sure to include nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and vitamin C in your diet. These will prevent your eyes from getting worse with age.
- Quit Smoking - Smoking makes you more likely to get cataracts, damage to your optic nerve and macular degeneration.
- Wear Sunglasses - Sunglasses are necessary to protect your eyes from the sun and its harmful rays. Choose sunglasses with UV protection.
- Look Away From the Computer Screen - If your job requires extended amounts of time on the computer, don’t forget to give your eyes a break every once and awhile. Too much time looking at a screen can cause blurry vision, headaches and dry eyes.
- Visit Your Eye Doctor Regularly - It is important to maintain your regular eye checks in order to protect your sight and catch any issues before they get out of hand. At a typical eye exam your vision will be tested, a glaucoma check will occur and dilation may happen.
At Medical Arts Eye Clinic & Optical, we understand the importance of comprehensive eye care and your convenience. We aim to provide our patients with the best optical care available, while serving as your one-stop-shop for all eye care needs. We take pride in our commitment to provide top-quality optical care, dependable services and patient satisfaction. We have flexible appointment hours, and we make your visit convenient, prompt and efficient. Our professional services will take care of your entire family. If you are looking to get your eyes checked, be sure to give us a call at 334-821-3838 and book your appointment.