It is no secret that nearsightedness (Myopia) and farsightedness (Hyperopia) are common eye conditions, affecting as much as 90% of the population to some degree. It is also no secret that many people confuse the two eye conditions. So what are the Differences between Nearsightedness & Farsightedness?
- Nearsightedness: Caused by an eyeball that is too long and affecting around 33% of Americans, nearsightedness affects the way in which we see objects at a distance. Because of this, nearsightedness is often associated with problems driving, playing sports, or seeing the blackboard in school. Symptoms include: blurred vision, squinting, and fatigue. High myopia is associated with an increased risk if retinal detachment, flashers and floaters.
- Farsightedness: Caused by an eyeball that is too short and affecting between 30-60% of Americans, farsightedness affects the way in which we see objects that are near. Because of this, farsightedness is often associated with difficulties reading. Symptoms include: trouble with reading, blurry vision at night, eyestrain, and headaches. Hyperopia is associated with an increased risk of narrow angle glaucoma and acute angle closure glaucoma.
Both nearsightedness and farsightedness can be corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery in some cases.
Comprehensive Ophthalmic Eye Exams at Anne Arundel Eye Center: Your Annapolis Eye Doctor
Led by Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers complete ophthalmic exams to help diagnose common (and some uncommon) eye problems, such as nearsightedness and farsightedness. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, both of our state-of-the-art treatment centers can meet all your eye care needs.
If you are diagnosed with either nearsightedness or farsightedness, we will be happy to provide you with a referral to an optometrist or ophthalmologist who can fit you for glasses or contacts or provide Lasik services.
“I treat my patients the way I want to be treated when I see a doctor.” – Dr. Boles
To learn more about The Differences between Nearsightedness & Farsightedness, please contact Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
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