Nearsighted versus farsighted

Many patients who are diagnosed with nearsighted or farsighted vision may not understand the reason for their vision changes and how they impact their daily lives. At Southside Eye Care of Chesapeake, VA, we work routinely with patients who have been diagnosed with these refractive errors and can offer them vision correction with eyeglasses and contacts so they can see clearly at all distances. 

How light comes into the eye 

To fully understand the differences between nearsighted vision and farsighted vision, patients must first understand how light comes into the eye. Light enters into the eye where the cornea and lens refract it towards the back of the eye onto the retina. The retina is responsible for converting the light and sending the information to the brain to produce the image the patient sees. In patients with proper vision, this light is focused perfectly on the retina. However, if there are imperfections in the way the light is transferred inside of the eye, it can result in refractive errors such as myopia and hyperopia. 

Nearsighted vs. farsighted 

• Nearsighted – nearsighted vision is known as myopia. It affects approximately 30% of individuals. Nearsighted patients will struggle with seeing clearly when driving, looking far away, or reading the board in the classroom, while it is easier for them to see while using the computer or reading a book. This condition occurs because the light that enters the eye is focused in front of the retina and not directly on it.
• Farsighted – farsighted vision is known as hyperopia. It affects approximately 10% of individuals. Farsighted patients will struggle reading a book directly in front of them, but can see farther distances with ease. This condition is a result of the light being focused behind the retina.

In need of an eye exam? 

Monitoring your eye health is vital to ensuring healthy and proper vision throughout your life. When you work with a dedicated team of professionals such as those at Southside Eye Care in Chesapeake, VA, you are in good hands! Patients of the area can call (757) 484-0101 to request an evaluation with our team at 3206 Churchland Boulevard to determine if they have any refractive errors that are impacting their vision.