Farsightedness and Nearsightedness Explained by our Elko Optometrists

One of the best ways to protect your vision is by visiting an eye doctor at least once a year. In doing so, you can be assessed for farsightedness and nearsightedness. In the event that you suffer from one of these disorders, your doctor can explain your different treatment options, such as wearing glasses or contacts. Our Elko optometrists here at Total Eyecare, explain the differences between farsightedness and nearsightedness.

What Is Farsightedness?

One of the most common causes of farsightedness is a flat cornea. Another cause is having an eyeball that is shorter than the normal eyeball. If this is the case, then the light that enters into your eye will be focused beyond your retina. Normally, it is supposed to be focused on the retina. Studies have shown that a person who has parents who are farsighted is more likely to inherit this disorder. Being farsighted means that you will have difficulty focusing on objects that are close. For example, you will want to hold a magazine far away from your eyes to read it because when it's up close, it will be blurry.

What Is Nearsightedness?

Nearsightedness is commonly referred to as myopia and is quite common. When a person is nearsighted, light entering the eye will focus in front of the retina. A person who suffers from this disorder has great trouble focusing on objects that are far away. Reading a magazine up close is very simple for a person who is nearsighted, but objects that are far away will be blurry and require some type of corrective measure to look at. 

How Can Either of These Disorders be Treated?

Fortunately, both nearsightedness and farsightedness can be corrected through the wearing of prescription glasses or contacts. You can contact your eye doctor to see which corrective measure is best for you and will most improve your ability to focus on objects. 

Contact our Optometrists in Elko Today

If you would like to learn more about treatment options for farsightedness and nearsightedness, please contact Total Eyecare today to book an appointment and speak with a qualified eye doctor. Call our Elko optometrists at (775) 738-8491 to schedule your appointment for a vision exam.