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Long‑Sightedness (Hyperopia)

A common vision condition where distant objects are seen clearly, but close objects appear blurry.

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What is Long‑Sightedness?

Long‑sightedness, also known as hyperopia or farsightedness, is a common eye condition where you can see distant objects clearly, but objects up close appear blurry. It's the opposite of short‑sightedness (myopia). Many people have some degree of long sight, and it can affect people of all ages.

What are the symptoms of Long‑Sightedness?

The symptoms of long‑sightedness (hyperopia) can vary depending on the degree of the condition and your age. Younger people with mild long‑sightedness may not experience noticeable symptoms because their eyes can often compensate. However, as the condition progresses or with age, symptoms become more apparent. 

  • Blurry vision, especially for close objects: This is the most common symptom. Reading, using a computer, or doing close‑up work can be difficult.  

  • Eye strain (asthenopia): Your eyes work harder to focus, leading to a feeling of fatigue or aching. 

  • Headaches: Often occurring after prolonged near work, due to the constant effort to focus. 

  • Squinting: You might find yourself squinting to try to see things more clearly. 

  • Difficulty reading small print: This is a classic sign, especially as you get older. 

  • Tired eyes: Your eyes may feel tired or heavy, particularly at the end of the day. 

  • Double vision: In some cases, severe eye strain can lead to double vision.

An optician delivers an eye test to a customer

Do these symptoms sound familiar?

If you have experienced any of the symptoms mentioned above it's worth booking an appointment with one of our optometrists.

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What causes Long‑Sightedness?

Long‑sightedness is usually caused by how the eye focuses light.

  1. Shorter eyeball:

    The most common cause is an eyeball that is shorter than average from front to back. This means light focuses behind the retina.

  2. Flat cornea:

    If the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) is less curved than it should be, light rays won't bend enough to focus correctly on the retina.

  3. Abnormally shaped lens:

    Less commonly, the lens inside the eye may have an irregular shape, preventing proper focusing.

  4. Genetics:

    Long‑sightedness often runs in families, suggesting a genetic link.

  5. Age:

    While long‑sightedness can be present from birth, it can also develop or become more noticeable with age, as the eye's lens becomes less flexible. This is different from presbyopia, which is specifically age‑related loss of near focusing ability.

How is Long‑Sightedness treated?

Long‑sightedness can be effectively corrected with various methods, such as glasses or contact lenses, depending on the severity and individual preference. The goal of treatment is to refocus light onto the retina.

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Can Long‑Sightedness be prevented?

While long‑sightedness is often genetic and cannot be entirely prevented, maintaining good eye health can help manage its progression and reduce associated symptoms. 

  • Regular eye tests: Crucial for early detection and management, especially for children, to prevent conditions like lazy eye. 

  • Proper lighting: Ensure good lighting when reading or doing close‑up work to reduce eye strain. 

  • Take breaks from screens: Follow the 20‑20‑20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) to reduce digital eye strain. 

  • Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those beneficial for eye health (e.g. Vitamin A, C, E, Zinc, Omega‑3 fatty acids), supports overall vision. 

  • Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses with UV protection outdoors and safety glasses when engaging in activities that could harm your eyes.

Long‑Sightedness FAQs:

Written by our experts for peace of mind

https://images.ctfassets.net/zcryw81f0g1x/5mrcuMDlru21b9LMMuIQn7/34dcf1c5e9fe3ed41c4ea4077537d61f/Ross_Campbell_Northallerton.jpg

Ross Campbell

BSc Hons MCOptom Prof Cert Glauc Prof Cert Med Ret

Ross is an experienced optometrist having graduated in 2007 from Bradford University. He is also ophthalmic director of Specsavers Swaledale with Northallerton & Thirsk, a pre‑registration supervisor, professional advancement consultant, and a WOPEC Lead Assessor. He has previously worked as Director of Optometry Advancement for Specsavers and as a columnist for Optician & ProFile magazine.

Related conditions

Not sure if this is what you’re experiencing? Explore some related conditions:

  • Myopia

    Myopia, also known as short‑sightedness or near‑sightedness, is a very common cause of blurred vision.

    Find out more

  • Astigmatism

    This is simply an imperfection in the shape of your eye that affects how you see.

    Find out more

  • Presbyopia

    Presbyopia is one of the most common causes of blurry close‑up vision as you get older. It's when your eyes find it harder to focus on things up close.

    Find out more

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Get expert eye advice

If you’ve noticed a change in your vision, or have experienced any symptoms mentioned above, it’s worth booking an appointment with one of our optometrists.

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