If you're confused about nearsightedness and farsightedness

When you start paying attention to eye health, the first terms you often encounter are "nearsightedness" and "farsightedness." These two words are frequently used in daily life, but it's likely that only a few people clearly understand the difference between them. Today, let's explore nearsightedness and farsightedness and explain how each condition affects our eyes.

1. What’s the difference between nearsightedness and farsightedness?

First, let’s look at the difference between nearsightedness and farsightedness.

Nearsightedness refers to a condition where close objects appear clear, but distant objects look blurry. In contrast, farsightedness is when nearby objects are difficult to see clearly, while distant objects appear sharper. 

These differences arise from the location where light focuses inside the eye. Nearsightedness occurs when the eyeball becomes elongated, causing light to focus in front of the retina. On the other hand, farsightedness is caused by a shortened eyeball, leading light to focus behind the retina.

2. The Risks of Nearsightedness and High Myopia

▲ The Estimated Number of People with Myopia and High Myopia from 2000 to 2050 (in 10-Year Intervals)

Myopia is not just about worsening vision—it can lead to serious health concerns, especially in cases of high myopia. High myopia significantly increases the risk of severe eye diseases such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

These conditions can result in not only vision impairment but also blindness in severe cases, making high myopia a condition that demands careful attention. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventive measures and manage eye health thoroughly before myopia progresses.

3. Farsightedness, Presbyopia, and Cataracts

▲ Principles of Combined Correction for Presbyopia and Farsightedness 

Farsightedness (hyperopia) often progresses alongside presbyopia as people age. Presbyopia is a condition caused by the loss of elasticity in the eye's lens due to aging, making it difficult to focus on nearby objects. Its symptoms are similar to those of farsightedness.  

Presbyopia also increases the likelihood of developing cataracts in the future. Cataracts, which occur when the eye's lens becomes cloudy, cause blurred vision and can significantly impair sight. Since both farsightedness and presbyopia raise the risk of cataract formation, regular eye examinations are essential if either condition is suspected.  

4. Vision Correction Methods by Age  

What are the most effective vision correction methods based on age?  

- For younger individuals, eyeglasses or contact lenses provide temporary solutions for correcting vision. However, for those seeking permanent correction, refractive surgeries such as SMILE or lens implantation surgery can be excellent options.  

- For middle-aged and older adults, vision correction often requires more tailored solutions because conditions like presbyopia or cataracts typically accompany nearsightedness or farsightedness. Multifocal intraocular lens implantation, such as Precizon CTF (Continuous Transitional Focus) lenses, may be necessary in these cases.  

▲ Detailed Information on Precizon CTF Refractive Segments and Near Addition Distribution Based on Pupil Diameter

These lenses not only treat cataracts but also address presbyopia simultaneously by distributing refractive segments and near additions according to the patient's pupil diameter. This customization allows for better vision at multiple distances, improving overall quality of life.  

Key Points for Maintaining Vision Health in Aging Adults

- Preventive Measures: Regular eye exams are essential to detect age-related vision issues like presbyopia and cataracts early.  

- Timely Surgery: Procedures like multifocal lens implantation can restore vision while preventing further decline. Addressing cataracts and presbyopia together ensures a more comprehensive solution.  

- Eye Health Awareness: Vision loss is often irreversible, making proactive care critical. Poor vision can significantly affect daily life, emphasizing the need for preventive and corrective actions.  

By selecting the right correction method at the appropriate time, you can protect your vision and enjoy a better quality of life well into the later stages of life.