Unit 4: Refractive Error

Long-sightedness is termed hypermetropia and occurs when the refractive power of the eye is too weak, and light from a distant object falls behind the retina

Source: National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health.

Hypermetropia Correction

Hypermetropia is corrected by a convex (positive powered) lens.

Young patients with low-level hypermetropia can accommodate to overcome hypermetropia, and focus the image on the retina.

If a hypermetropic patient is 'accommodating' for a long period of time e.g. using a computer or reading, this can cause 'eyestrain' and headache. Reading glasses may help.