Nearsighted vs Farsighted

If you have trouble seeing things at certain distances, then you most likely have a refractive vision error like nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia). Refractive vision errors affect the way the eyes transfer light to the retina and can lead to blurry vision. Our “eye doctor near me” in West Des Moines, IA, at Lock Family Eye Care can help with both conditions.

Nearsightedness

If you are nearsighted, you will have trouble seeing objects clearly at a distance. This is the most common refractive vision error that people have. A hallmark of myopia is an eyeball that is too long. This causes light to not focus properly through the cornea and lens. To see an object clearly, light must be accurately refracted through the eye onto the retina. If light is focused either too far behind or in front of the retina inside the eye, blurry vision is the result.

Farsightedness

Farsightedness is similar to nearsightedness in that it is a refractive vision error that leads to blurry vision at certain distances. Farsightedness differs from nearsightedness in that a person with farsightedness will not be able to see close by objects clearly. Farsightedness is much harder to detect during a common vision screening, but a comprehensive eye exam can diagnose it.

Is It Better to Be Farsighted or Nearsighted?

Whether it’s better to be farsighted or nearsighted will depend on your occupation and lifestyle. If you need to see up close for work in an office, then it might be easier if you are nearsighted. If you need to drive a lot then being farsighted can be easier to better see road signs. Luckily, both conditions can be managed, so there’s no need to live with either. Our optometrist will recommend corrective eyewear in order to help you with your vision. All you need is a comprehensive eye exam.

Correct Your Eye Condition with Help from an “Eye Doctor Near Me”

Visiting our optometrist in West Des Moines, IA, can help you correct both nearsightedness and farsightedness. Contact us today at Lock Family Eye Care.