Nearsighted and farsighted issues are opposites. When you are nearsighted, you can see objects better close up. If you’re farsighted, it’s easier to see farther distances. In other words, it might be easy to read a book but difficult to read a highway sign if you’re nearsighted and precisely opposite if you’re farsighted.
More About Being Nearsighted
Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, means you can see objects that are up close. It is caused when your eyeball is longer than average. This difference in the shape of your eyes results in light rays focusing before they reach your retina.
If you are nearsighted, you likely need prescription eyewear like glasses or contacts. You may also be a candidate for corrective eye surgery. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may or may not need to wear corrective lenses all the time.
For example, you may need to wear them all the time if you can’t see past your nose. If you can’t see very well when driving but can see decently well when watching TV, you may only need lenses for driving.
More About Being Farsighted
Farsightedness, also known as hyperopia, is the exact opposite of being nearsighted. Close objects are difficult to focus on while you can see off in the distance. Your eyeball is shorter than average, bringing light rays past the retina’s focal point.
Farsighted people can also wear lenses like glasses or contacts. You may also have the option of corrective surgery. Being farsighted has different degrees of severity, and you may need to wear lenses all the time. Some people may only need to wear lenses some of the time.
To decide if you need lenses, you’ll want to visit your eye doctor to assess your needs. If you like to read or sew, as an example, you may need lenses for when you’re doing these types of tasks.
Getting the Right Diagnosis
If you’re older than about 40, your eyes may start to change, giving you what feels like farsightedness, when in reality, it is presbyopia. If you have presbyopia, you’ll need transition lenses or bifocal lenses as your eyes are simply aging.
When you see your doctor, you’ll discuss any symptoms you may be having. Symptoms that you can experience include eye strain, headaches, and unusual clumsiness. Not seeing well enough to do daily tasks can lead to being clumsy just because you can’t see. Whatever your situation, you want to get your eyes checked to get the proper treatment.
Opting for Treatment
Your eye shape and condition will determine if you’re a good candidate for a variety of treatments. Corrective lenses like glasses and contacts adjust the bend in light rays that reach your eyes to get the rays to your retina. Surgery reshapes your eye to bring light into focus.
To discuss your treatment options or book an appointment, contact Grin Eye Care at 913-829-5511 to schedule a consultation at any of our offices in Leawood and Olathe, Kansas, or our satellite locations in Raymore and Independence, Missouri, and Lawrence, Kansas.
