Hypermetropia: Definition and Causes

Hypermetropia

Hypermetropia, commonly known as "difficulty seeing near objects" among the general public, is an eye defect. This condition stems from a problem with the eye's optical system and causes a person to be unable to see nearby objects clearly. Hypermetropia is an eye defect that can significantly affect quality of life, and it is possible to correct it with proper treatment. In this article we have prepared for you, we will try to find answers to the questions "What is Hypermetropia and How Does It Occur?"

What is Hypermetropia?

Hypermetropia is the condition of being unable to see near objects clearly due to the eye's focal point forming behind the retina. This condition occurs as a result of the cornea and lens portions of the eye being unable to focus light properly. People with hypermetropia can see distant objects better while experiencing difficulty focusing on near objects. This condition creates problems particularly in reading and work done at close distances. Hypermetropia is generally a congenital condition, and its symptoms become more pronounced as age increases.

Degrees of Hypermetropia

The degrees of hypermetropia are classified according to the severity of the eye's refractive error. These degrees can be explained as follows:

• Mild Hypermetropia is a refractive error between +0.25 and +2.00 diopters. People with this degree generally experience difficulty focusing on near objects.

• Moderate Hypermetropia is a refractive error between +2.25 and +5.00 diopters. In people with this degree, the problem of focusing on near objects becomes more pronounced, and glasses or contact lens use may be necessary.

• High Hypermetropia is a refractive error of +5.25 diopters and above. People with this degree experience difficulty focusing on both near and distant objects, and glasses or contact lens use is mandatory.

Types of Hypermetropia

Hypermetropia is divided into two types according to its mode of occurrence. These are as follows:

Simple Hypermetropia: Hypermetropia that occurs due to the cornea and lens portions of the eye being naturally short. This condition generally becomes more pronounced with age and is corrected through glasses or contact lenses.

Pathological Hypermetropia: Hypermetropia that occurs as a result of diseases or injuries to structures such as the cornea, lens, or eyeball. This condition generally leads to more serious vision problems and may need to be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgical intervention.

In Whom is Hypermetropia Seen?

Hypermetropia is commonly known among the general public as an eye defect of "seeing distant objects well, but being unable to see near objects." Hypermetropia can occur in every age group, but it is generally a congenital condition that progresses with age. Hypermetropia is more commonly found in children and elderly people.

In children, hypermetropia is a congenital or early-onset condition, and it generally resolves over time. However, if it does not resolve, hypermetropia that begins in childhood may continue into adulthood. In elderly people, hypermetropia is more commonly seen due to the reduced elasticity of the crystalline lens, which is the eye's natural lens, and weakening of the eye muscles as a result of aging.

Hypermetropia can be seen in both genders and is commonly observed in families due to genetic factors. Additionally, hypermetropia may develop following certain diseases and eye surgeries.

What are the Symptoms of Hypermetropia?

Symptoms of hypermetropia vary from person to person and can range in severity from mild to severe. Symptoms of hypermetropia can be explained as follows:

• Difficulty focusing on near objects,

• Eye fatigue and headaches when looking at near objects,

• Difficulty focusing on distant objects (in cases of severe hypermetropia),

• Tearing and burning of the eyes,

• Redness and irritation of the eyes,

• Double vision or blurred vision,

• Reading by squinting or tilting the head forward,

• Excessive fatigue of the eye muscles due to the eyes constantly attempting accommodation,

What Causes Hypermetropia?

Hypermetropia, as one of the eye's refractive errors, occurs due to the shape of the eye or improper functioning of the structures within the eye. Hypermetropia occurs as a result of the cornea and lens of the eye being unable to focus light properly. In this case, light rays focus behind the retina and a clear image does not form.

The underlying causes of hypermetropia can be explained as follows:

• Short anteroposterior diameter of the eye,

• Insufficient curvature of the cornea,

• Reduced elasticity of the crystalline lens due to aging,

• Genetic factors,

How Does a Hypermetropic Person See?

Hypermetropia, commonly known as hypermetropia, is an eye defect that occurs due to the eye's inability to focus light properly. Hypermetropic individuals can see near objects blurrily while being able to see distant objects more clearly. This condition occurs due to insufficient refractive power of the eye or the eye's anteroposterior axis being too short.

In hypermetropic individuals, light should fall on the retina, but instead focuses behind the retina. This makes it difficult for near objects to be seen clearly. Hypermetropic individuals generally struggle with activities performed at close distances, such as reading and writing. Additionally, as a result of prolonged work at close distances, they may experience complaints such as headaches, eye fatigue, and burning sensations in the eyes.

How is Hypermetropia Diagnosed?

Hypermetropia is diagnosed during an eye examination. After listening to the patient's complaints, the eye doctor performs various tests to examine the internal structure of the eye and its refractive power. These tests can be explained as follows:

• Visual acuity test,

• Retinoscopy,

• Autorefractometry,

• Biomicroscopy,

How is Hypermetropia Treated?

Treatment for hypermetropia varies depending on the patient's age, eye health, and degree of hypermetropia. The following methods can be used for hypermetropia treatment:

• Eyeglasses made with appropriate lenses for hypermetropic patients provide comfort during activities performed at near distances. Glasses can be used especially for tasks such as reading and writing.

• For patients who do not want to wear glasses, appropriately powered contact lenses may be preferred. Contact lenses are thin plastic disks that correct the refractive power of the eye and provide more comfortable vision.

• In appropriate patients, hypermetropia can be corrected with laser treatment. Laser treatment changes the shape of the corneal layer, allowing light to focus properly. Laser treatment is generally applied to patients over 18 years of age whose eye prescription is stable.

• In cases of severe hypermetropia, special lenses placed inside the eye can be used. These lenses are permanent solutions that correct the refractive power of the eye and provide clearer vision.

Treatment of hypermetropia is important in improving the patient's quality of life and minimizing visual problems. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods help hypermetropic individuals lead a more comfortable and healthier life.

Surgical Methods for Hypermetropia Treatment

Hypermetropia, commonly known among the general public as the ability to see distant objects well but inability to see near objects, is an eye defect. Hypermetropia is also called a refractive error, and the optical system of the eye focuses light in front of the retina. This condition causes nearby objects to appear blurred. Various surgical methods are available for hypermetropia treatment. In this article, information is provided about the main surgical methods used for hypermetropia treatment.

Laser Eye Surgery (Refractive Surgery)

Laser eye surgery is a commonly used and successful method in hypermetropia treatment. Refractive surgery corrects the shape of the cornea, allowing light to focus properly. Laser eye surgery methods used in hypermetropia treatment are as follows:

• LASIK (Laser In Situ Keratomileusis). In this method, a thin flap is created on the cornea and a laser is applied to the tissue beneath the cornea. The flap is then repositioned. LASIK is known for its fast healing process and minimal pain.

• PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). In the PRK method, the outermost layer of the cornea is removed and the corneal tissue is treated with a laser. The cornea's outer layer then naturally regenerates. Although PRK has a longer healing process compared to LASIK, it may be a more suitable option in some cases.

Lens Implantation

Lens implantation is another surgical method used in hypermetropia treatment. In this method, a special lens is placed inside the eye to work together with the eye's natural lens. Lens implantation is particularly suitable for patients with high degrees of hypermetropia and those who are not suitable candidates for laser eye surgery. Lens implantation methods are as follows:

• ICL (Implantable Contact Lens). The implantable contact lens is placed inside the eye to work in conjunction with the eye's natural lens. This method provides effective results in the treatment of high hypermetropia and astigmatism.

• RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange). In the RLE method, the eye's natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. This method is particularly used in the treatment of age-related hypermetropia and cataracts.

Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)

Conductive keratoplasty is a less invasive method used in hypermetropia treatment. In this method, radiofrequency energy is used to raise the temperature of the corneal tissue and change the shape of the cornea. CK is suitable for patients with low degrees of hypermetropia and those who are not suitable candidates for laser eye surgery.

In conclusion, various surgical methods are available for hypermetropia treatment. The most suitable method is selected based on factors such as the patient's eye structure, degree of hypermetropia, and lifestyle. Patients evaluating surgical methods for hypermetropia treatment should conduct a detailed evaluation with eye health specialists to determine the most appropriate option.

Hypermetropia Treatment Costs in Turkey

Turkey has managed to make a name for itself in the world through its investments and efforts in the healthcare sector. Particularly in diagnostic and treatment procedures, cutting-edge technological equipment has brought hope to many diseases. Additionally, an increase has been observed in medical tourism to Turkey.

• Hospitals being large, clean, spacious, and fully equipped with regard to technological devices,

• Turkish doctors being specialist, successful, and talented in their fields,

• Nurses and caregivers being friendly and compassionate,

• Providing quick and accurate answers to questions asked,

• All personnel, including the intermediary company dealing with the patient, being patient and understanding,

• Turkey offering opportunities for vacation with its natural and historical beauties,

• Easy accessibility,

• Meeting needs such as diagnosis, treatment, accommodation, food, beverages, clothing, and vacation at affordable prices,

are listed among the reasons for preference. Regarding Hypermetropia Treatment Costs in Turkey, we can see that patients and their relatives who want to come to Turkey are conducting research. However, at this stage, it would not be correct to provide definitive pricing information. Many factors such as the type of disease, its stage, the diagnostic process, the treatment process, and the duration of stay in Turkey affect the pricing issue. If you would like to obtain more detailed pricing information, you can contact us. Additionally, if you come to Turkey for treatment through our mediation, we can facilitate your visa application process with an invitation letter sent by us to the consulate.