Long sight, or hyperopia, means the eye focuses light behind the retina instead of on it. Distant objects may look clear, but close work takes extra effort.
Signs to look for
- Eye strain, tired eyes or headaches after reading
- Blurred near vision, and sometimes blurred distance vision too
- In children: avoiding reading, losing place while reading, or an eye that turns inward
Why children need checks
Children can often focus through mild long sight, so it goes unnoticed. Higher levels can make one eye turn inwards (a type of squint) or lead to lazy eye. Glasses usually solve both. This is why every child should have an eye test before starting school.
Correction
- Glasses or contact lenses
- Laser surgery for suitable adults
- Lens-based procedures in some cases
See our children’s eye care and glasses and lenses pages.
Frequently asked questions
Is long sight the same as presbyopia?
No. Long sight is a focusing error you are usually born with. Presbyopia is the age-related loss of near focus that starts in your 40s.
Can children outgrow long sight?
Mild long sight often reduces as children grow. Your eye doctor will monitor and update glasses as needed.
Sources
This article is for general information and does not replace an examination by an eye doctor. If you have symptoms, please book a consultation.