Hyperopia (Long-sightedness)

Some people have eyes that are too short, which means the light focuses behind the retina (they are long-sighted). This means that they have to focus more than they should do, particularly on things that are close up.

• Normally, light is focussed by the cornea and lens to form a sharp image on the retina.

• Long-sightedness occurs when the eyeball is slightly too short

• This may result in blurred vision when looking in the distance

• …and particularly when looking at near objects and reading.

• When we are young, we overcome/autocorrect long-sightedness by bulging out the lens in the eye.

• However, as we get older, the lens gets harder and can no longer bulge out enough.

• Long-sightedness can be corrected by glasses or contact lenses.