Hypermetropia vs. Hyperopia — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 3, 2024
Hypermetropia and hyperopia are different terms for the same condition, referring to farsightedness where distant objects are seen more clearly than close ones.
Difference Between Hypermetropia and Hyperopia
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Key Differences
Hypermetropia is a common refractive error in which the eyesight condition causes distant objects to be seen more clearly than those that are close. On the other hand, hyperopia is another term used to describe this exact phenomenon, emphasizing the same vision issue.
People with hypermetropia have a shorter than average eyeball or a lens that is not curved enough, making it difficult to focus on nearby objects. Whereas, those with hyperopia experience the same optical characteristics, leading to similar challenges in focusing.
Corrective measures for hypermetropia often involve using convex lenses in glasses or contact lenses to help focus the light more effectively on the retina. Similarly, correction for hyperopia utilizes the same type of lenses to aid in better near vision.
In discussing hypermetropia, it's noted that it can be diagnosed during regular eye examinations when patients report difficulties with close vision. In contrast, hyperopia is also typically identified in this way, highlighting the importance of regular eye health check-ups.
Treatment options for hypermetropia may include eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery, depending on the severity and the individual’s preference. Meanwhile, treatment for hyperopia follows the same guidelines, aiming to improve near vision and overall eye comfort.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A condition of farsightedness
Another term for farsightedness
Synonym
Hyperopia
Hypermetropia
Eye Shape
Shorter than normal eyeball or less curved lens
Same as hypermetropia
Common Correction
Convex lenses in glasses or contacts
Identical to hypermetropia
Detection Method
Eye exams when close vision issues are reported
Diagnosed similarly through routine eye exams
Compare with Definitions
Hypermetropia
A vision condition where close objects appear blurry.
She was diagnosed with hypermetropia after struggling to read books clearly.
Hyperopia
Refers to the same eye condition as hypermetropia, causing difficulty focusing on near objects.
His hyperopia was so severe that he needed bifocals.
Hypermetropia
Often corrected with convex lenses.
He uses convex lens glasses to correct his hypermetropia.
Hyperopia
Detectable through similar eye examinations.
Annual eye exams help monitor his hyperopia progression.
Hypermetropia
May affect both children and adults.
Hypermetropia in children is sometimes corrected naturally as their eyes develop.
Hyperopia
Affects individuals of various age groups.
Hyperopia is commonly diagnosed in young children and older adults.
Hypermetropia
Can be diagnosed in routine eye check-ups.
Her hypermetropia was discovered during a school eye screening.
Hyperopia
Associated symptoms include squinting and aching eyes.
To see the text clearly, she squints, which is a common sign of hyperopia.
Hypermetropia
Sometimes leads to eye strain or headaches.
Without her glasses, her hypermetropia causes frequent headaches.
Hyperopia
Treated with the same methods as hypermetropia.
Convex contact lenses help her manage her hyperopia effectively.
Hypermetropia
See hyperopia.
Hyperopia
An abnormal condition of the eye in which vision is better for distant objects than for near objects. It results from the eyeball being too short from front to back, causing images to be focused behind the retina. Also called farsightedness, hypermetropia.
Hypermetropia
Hyperopia
Hyperopia
(pathology) A disorder of the vision where the eye focusses images behind the retina instead of on it, so that distant objects can be seen better than near objects.
Hypermetropia
An abnormal condition of the eye in which, through shortness of the eyeball or fault of the refractive media, the rays of light come to a focus behind the retina, making vision for distant objects better than for near objects; farsightedness; - now most commonly called hyperopia. Cf. Emmetropia.
Hyperopia
An abnormal condition of the eye in which, through shortness of the eyeball or fault of the refractive media, the rays of light come to a focus behind the retina, making vision for distant objects better than for near objects; farsightedness; - called also hypermetropia. Cf. Emmetropia.
Hypermetropia
Abnormal condition in which vision for distant objects is better than for near objects
Hyperopia
Abnormal condition in which vision for distant objects is better than for near objects
Common Curiosities
Are hypermetropia and hyperopia the same?
Yes, hypermetropia and hyperopia refer to the same vision condition known as farsightedness.
What are common treatments for hypermetropia and hyperopia?
Treatments include the use of corrective convex lenses, either in glasses or contact lenses, and sometimes refractive surgery.
What causes hypermetropia and hyperopia?
Both conditions are typically caused by an eye being shorter than normal or having a lens that's less curved, which affects how light focuses on the retina.
Can children outgrow hypermetropia or hyperopia?
In some cases, children's hypermetropia can lessen as their eyeball grows to normal length during development.
Can hypermetropia and hyperopia lead to other eye problems?
Yes, if untreated, they can contribute to eye strain, headaches, and might exacerbate conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (crossed eyes).
How often should someone with hypermetropia or hyperopia have their eyes examined?
It is recommended to have annual eye exams to monitor the condition and adjust prescriptions as needed.
What is the difference between hypermetropia and myopia?
Hypermetropia (farsightedness) means difficulty focusing on close objects, whereas myopia (nearsightedness) is difficulty focusing on distant objects.
What is hypermetropia?
Hypermetropia, or hyperopia, is a condition where the eye is shorter than normal or the lens is not as curved, making it hard to see close objects clearly.
How are hypermetropia and hyperopia diagnosed?
Both are diagnosed during routine eye examinations when difficulty focusing on nearby objects is reported.
Can hypermetropia or hyperopia worsen with age?
Yes, these conditions can change with age, often requiring stronger prescriptions over time.
Can hypermetropia or hyperopia be corrected permanently?
Refractive surgery, such as LASIK, can permanently correct the vision for many individuals, although not everyone is a candidate.
Is there a genetic predisposition to hypermetropia or hyperopia?
Yes, there is often a genetic component, making it more likely to develop if one or both parents have the condition.
Are there specific activities that people with hypermetropia or hyperopia should avoid?
No specific activities need to be avoided, but wearing the correct prescription lenses is crucial for tasks that require sharp near vision, like reading or using a computer.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
