Farsightedness


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Farsightedness


Farsightedness, also called hyperopia, is the inability of the eye to focus on nearby objects and sometimes on distant objects as well. This occurs because the light entering the eye is focused behind the retina instead of directly on it.

Farsightedness occurs when an eye is too short lengthwise, the cornea is not curved enough, or the lens sits farther back in the eye than normal.

Eyeglasses or contact lenses are used most often to correct farsightedness. In some cases surgery can improve vision.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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