Farsightedness is more prevalent than you think. People who have this vision condition see distant objects clearly, while near objects seem blurry or fuzzy. This can make even simple activities like reading challenging. As one of the leading eye specialists in Houston, board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Fred Mattioli sees many individuals who need treatment for refractive errors, like farsightedness.
A common question that comes up during an eye consultation is, “what is causing my farsighted vision problems?” The answer is usually either genetics or natural aging. However, it is best to get a diagnosis during an eye exam. If you live in Woodlands, Sugar Land, River Oaks, or West University, call Mattioli Vision Professionals for an evaluation. We can show you how to improve farsighted vision through LASIK surgery.
Farsighted vision explained
Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is a refractive error that compromises your ability to focus. The eyeball may be too short or the lens improperly curved. Objects only an arm’s length away are indistinct or blurry. You may experience headaches or eye strain after trying to read for long periods of time.
In most cases, hyperopia is passed down from your parents and present from birth. Other potential causes include an eye injury or previous eye surgery. Farsighted vision can manifest as squinting during reading in younger children, affecting their performance at school. This is why families are encouraged to schedule regular eye exams and vision tests in Houston.
Age-related farsightedness
There is another form of farsightedness called presbyopia. Presbyopia is age-related and not caused by heredity or genetics. It occurs when the muscles that control the eye lens become weaker over time. Most people begin to experience the early signs of presbyopia beginning in their 40s and 50s. Some symptoms of presbyopia include:
- Eye strain while reading
- The need for better lighting while reading
- Noticeable changes in vision quality
- Frequent squinting
Farsighted vision treatment
Treatment for farsighted vision problems includes prescription or drugstore glasses. However, adults can find these options inconvenient or not compatible with their lifestyle. For example, it is not safe or recommended to wear glasses during sports activities. Instead, people with farsightedness can consider LASIK eye surgery. Dr. Mattioli performs this treatment by making a small flap in the cornea for reshaping. Surgery is minimally invasive and has high success rates.
How to improve farsighted vision
The LASIK specialists at Mattioli Vision Professionals also provide patients with education and resources, so they know how to improve farsighted vision at home. Even though you cannot control genetics, you can maintain eye health by eating a diet rich in fruits and leafy green vegetables. Regular exercise and staying hydrated are also great ways to prevent future eye disease. If you believe you are at high risk of any eye conditions due to family history, consult with Dr. Mattioli.
Correct farsighted vision problems
Chronic headaches and squinting while reading can seriously impact your quality of life. If you want to live with clear vision free from glasses, meet with Dr. Fred Mattioli at Mattioli Vision Professionals. We can determine the cause of your farsighted vision and create a custom treatment plan. Our practice, located in Houston, TX, is a proud provider of LASIK for patients who live in Woodlands, Sugar Land, River Oaks, and West University.
