Hypermetropia Treatment in Delhi, India

Hypermetropia is a common vision condition that makes it difficult to see or focus on nearby objects clearly. The ability to focus on nearby objects depends upon the severity of the condition. In milder cases, a person might see objects within a few feet clearly. However, as the condition worsens, close-up vision becomes increasingly blurry. For those with more severe cases, it can be challenging to make out anything in the immediate surroundings. The clarity of near-vision drops significantly, making daily tasks difficult.

Simple Hypermetropia

Simple hypermetropia is the most common type of hypermetropia. It is further subcategorised into axial and curvature hypermetropia.

• Axial hypermetropia: In axial hypermetropia, the eyeball is shorter than normal, causing light to focus behind the retina.
• Curvature hypermetropia: A flattening of the cornea leads to curvature hypermetropia.

Pathological Hypermetropia

This type occurs due to underlying health conditions that disrupt normal eye function. Such conditions can include eye disease, lens dislocation or even cataracts.

Functional Hypermetropia

Farsightedness caused by weakness of the eye muscles or lens’s inability to change shape properly while focusing light is known as functional hypermetropia.

The primary cause of hypermetropia is a curved cornea or a shorter eyeball, both of which lead to a refractive error in forming images. These structural differences cause light to bend in a way that focuses light behind the retina. This makes objects up close appear blurry.

Some of the factors that increase the chances of developing hypermetropia include:

• Age: The likelihood of developing hypermetropia increases after age 40.
• Family History: Farsightedness can be inherited from parents or family members.
• Genetic conditions: Hypermetropia can be associated with genetic disorders such as down syndrome and microphthalmia.
• Over-straining the eyes: Performing tasks that require close-up focus, such as prolonged computer work or activities like stitching and sewing, can put strain on the eyes and increase the risk of hyperopia.

Hypermetropia can lead to:

• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Double vision
• Difficulty reading
• Fatigue

The diagnosis of hypermetropia starts with the doctor asking questions about symptoms and family history. This will be followed by one or more of the following tests to confirm hypermetropia.

• Eye Exam: During an initial eye exam, an ophthalmologist will dilate the eyes with the help of eye drops and shines light into the eye to get a better view of its internal structure.
• Visual Acuity Test: This test requires the patient to read letters and numbers from an eye chart at various distances, helping to determine vision clarity.
• Refraction Test: Measures the degree of hypermetropia using a device called phoropter. The eyes are tested using different lenses.
• Slit Lamp Test: A slit lamp test is done to examine the eye's structure and helps rule out other conditions that may affect vision.

The most common way of treating and managing hypermetropia is via prescription lenses. However, for severe cases or for cases that can’t be treated with lenses, surgery is recommended.

Prescription Lenses

A prescription lens works by compensating for the reduced curvature of the cornea or the shorter size of the eyeball. The lens helps refocus the light so it correctly forms an image on the retina. Eyeglasses and contact lenses are the two most commonly prescribed forms of corrective lenses.

Surgery

Surgery is often recommended for severe farsightedness or for patients who prefer a more long-term solution. It can be of three types:

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK)

LASIK is a very popular choice for correcting hypermetropia. A thin flap is created in the cornea, followed by reshaping the underlying tissue with a laser. It is a quick, painless procedure that is done in about 15-20 minutes. The results are immediate, and the vision is improved within a few days.

Laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK)

LASEK is less invasive than LASIK. The procedure involves loosening the outermost layer of the cornea and then reshaping it with a laser. Recovery is longer than for LASIK.

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)

PKR involves removing the outer layer cornea and reshaping the underlying tissue. The epithelium then naturally grows.

Consulting with top hyperopia specialists can help determine the most suitable procedure for each patient's hypermetropia.

Several complications can arise, if hypermetropia is left untreated for a long period. These include:

• Crossed eyes:  Crossed eyes, or strabismus (when each eye points in different directions), is a complication of hypermetropia seen in children.
• Eyestrain: Untreated hypermetropia may cause squinting or eye strain. This might lead to eyestrain or headaches.
• Reduced quality of life: if left untreated, hypermetropia can affect overall quality of life. Individuals may struggle to perform tasks effectively due to decreased vision.

Additionally, there are some potential complications and side effects of the surgery, such as dry eyes, under- or over-correction, corneal flap issues, and, in rare cases, vision loss.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent hypermetropia, certain lifestyle choices can help in reducing the risk:

• Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in vitamins A and C benefits eye health. Foods like strawberries, oranges, and green leafy vegetables are excellent examples to include in your diet
• Regular eye check-ups: Routine eye check-ups can help detect and treat any issues early, preventing them from becoming severe.
• Wear sunglasses: Wearing sunglasses that block a high percentage of UV rays can protect your eyes when outdoors.
• Give your eyes a rest: If you spend long hours on digital devices, take regular breaks to prevent eye strain.

1. Can hypermetropia get worse as you age?

Yes, hypermetropia can become more severe with age, especially after 40. As your eyes naturally lose their focusing ability, you may notice an increase in farsightedness. This could mean needing stronger glasses or contacts, or possibly considering surgery.

2. Is hypermetropia the same thing as presbyopia?

No, they're different conditions. Both make it hard to see things up close, but presbyopia is age-related and typically starts after 40. It affects how well your eyes can focus on near objects. Hypermetropia, on the other hand, can be present from birth.

3. Can kids outgrow hypermetropia?

Sometimes, mild hypermetropia in children may improve as they grow older. It's important to monitor their vision with regular eye exams to prevent complications like crossed eyes.

4. How often should I get my eyes checked if I have hypermetropia?

It's best to have an eye exam at least every two years. If hypermetropia is getting worse or causing discomfort, more frequent visits may be necessary?

5. Does screen time make hypermetropia worse?

Too much screen time can cause eye strain and make hypermetropia symptoms like blurry vision and headaches feel worse. Taking regular breaks and following the 20-20-20 rule (look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) can help reduce strain.

Reviewed By Dr. Smriti Goel, Consultant - Eye Surgery, Eye Care / Ophthalmology on 23 Dec 2024.