Hyperopia in Children

Hyperopia, commonly known as farsightedness or hypermetropia, is a type of refractive error characterized by the eye's inability to focus on nearby objects. This occurs when the distance between the cornea and retina is too short, causing images to be focused behind the retina.

Genetics plays a significant role in the development of hyperopia, with hereditary factors being a primary contributor. Additionally, factors such as illnesses during fetal development and malnutrition are linked to the onset of this condition.

To better understand hyperopia and enhance its detection, implementing advanced eye examinations for children in schools is crucial.

Signs of Hyperopia:

Children with hyperopia often struggle to communicate their visual difficulties to their parents. However, there are several signs that parents can be vigilant about. If any of these signs are observed, an eye examination is essential.

Headaches:

Kids with hyperopia frequently experience headaches due to eye strain. Interestingly, these headaches often diminish on weekends when children have the chance to rest.

Blurry vision:

Children with longsightedness often struggle with near vision, though their strong eyes may initially compensate for this issue.

Eye strain:

Children with mild hyperopia might be able to focus on close objects clearly, but this requires extra effort, leading to eye strain and discomfort. Persistent strain can even cause the eyes to tear up.

Dull pain in the eyes:

The combination of eye strain and frequent eye rubbing can result in a dull ache or a stinging sensation.

Hyperopia in children
Fig: Normal Vision vs Hyperopia in children

Reading and writing struggles:

Kids with hyperopia may face difficulties with reading and writing, often performing below their grade level or having trouble maintaining attention.

Squinting:

To enhance focus temporarily, children might squint to see objects or text more clearly. However, frequent squinting can potentially cause misalignment of the eyes.

How can we help?

Hyperopia often goes unnoticed in children as their eyes naturally compensate for the condition. In cases of mild hyperopia, children's vision typically improves as their eyes grow. By around 8 years old, ocular development is usually complete. If farsightedness isn't corrected by this age, the vision impairment can become permanent.

Thus, the ages between 3 and 8 are critical for detecting vision issues in children. Regular eye exams during this period can identify hyperopia early on. Corrective glasses can then be prescribed to ease eye strain and support healthy ocular development.

The Vigour360 School Health Program offers preventive screening in schools, ensuring that vision problems are detected early, and preventing them from impacting children's academic performance and daily lives.

FAQs:

Can Hyperopia be corrected?

Yes, hyperopia can be effectively corrected, especially with early detection in children. Early diagnosis is crucial as it allows for timely intervention, greatly enhancing a child's visual development and quality of life.

Typically, eyeglasses are the first method of correction, with lenses designed to focus light correctly so near objects are clear. For older children and teenagers, contact lenses may also be an option. Regular monitoring is essential since children's vision can change as they grow, and frequent eye exams ensure that prescriptions remain accurate.

Is hyperopia present at birth?

Yes, many children have mild hyperopia at birth, but the vision improves as the eyes grow in early childhood. By adolescence, hyperopia goes away.  If it does not correct, then it will continue to affect vision for a lifetime. Therefore, identifying it in the early stages becomes crucial. With advanced eye checkups in schools, it is easy to catch hyperopia.

Let us take control of your child’s eye, with regular examination from an early age. Learn more!

 

 



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Hyperopia in Children
Hyperopia, commonly known as farsightedness or hypermetropia, is a type of refractive error cha