Blurry vision, whether near or at a distance, has a way of interrupting your everyday life and making daily tasks unmanageable. But when things come back into focus—whether it’s reading a menu, recognizing a face, or watching a show from across the room—life feels noticeably easier.
At The Optical Centre, we help bring that clarity back. From comprehensive eye exams to tailored treatments like myopia control and reading glasses, our team provides the kind of personalized care that meets your vision needs today and supports your eye health for the future.
The Difference Between Myopia and Hyperopia
Here's what to know about two of the most common causes of blurry vision, myopia and hyperopia:
What Is Myopia?
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, causes distant objects to appear blurry while nearby objects remain in focus. This happens when the eye is slightly longer than normal, or the cornea is too curved, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it.
Myopia often begins in childhood and can progress rapidly, especially in environments where children spend a lot of time indoors or in front of screens. Sound familiar? It’s no coincidence that many young patients in Longmont are being diagnosed earlier and more frequently.
Common symptoms of myopia include:
- Difficulty seeing distant objects
- Squinting
- Headaches
- Eye strain
- Poor night vision
What Is Hyperopia?
Hyperopia, or farsightedness, affects vision in the opposite way: close-up objects appear blurry, while distant objects may remain clearer. This occurs when the eye is shorter than normal, or the cornea has too little curvature, so light focuses behind the retina.
It’s more common in adults over 40 but also affects children—especially when symptoms go unnoticed. Many farsighted people compensate by over-focusing, which can lead to fatigue and eye strain, especially during reading or computer work.
Symptoms of hyperopia may include:
- Blurry vision when reading or using devices
- Frequent headaches or eye fatigue
- Trouble focusing on nearby tasks
- Discomfort after prolonged near work
Comparing the Two: Myopia vs. Hyperopia
Understanding the distinctions between these conditions can help you better recognize symptoms and seek appropriate care.
Light focus location
- Myopia: Focused in front of the retina
- Hyperopia: Focused behind the retina
Affects vision at
- Myopia: Distant objects
- Hyperopia: Near objects
Common age groups
- Myopia: Typically starts in childhood
- Hyperopia: Often noticed in adulthood
Symptoms
- Myopia: Squinting, blurry distance vision, eye strain
- Hyperopia: Headaches, blurry near vision, tired eyes
Risk factors
- Myopia: Genetics, screen time, limited outdoor activity
- Hyperopia: Age, family history, other eye conditions
Treatments
- Myopia: Myopia management, lenses, refractive surgery
- Hyperopia: Reading glasses, lenses, refractive surgery
Vision Care That Fits Longmont’s Lifestyle
Whether you're enjoying a hike, attending a child’s school play, or working remotely, uncorrected vision can interfere with your lifestyle in Longmont. Our dry climate and digital-heavy routines mean more people are noticing signs of vision problems earlier and seeking help to keep their vision sharp.
The Optical Centre provides care that adapts to your lifestyle, whether you need a routine eye exam, new contact lenses, or long-term myopia treatment. We're here for every patient, at every stage of life.
See Clearly with Help From The Optical Centre in Longmont, CO
Blurred vision doesn’t have to be your norm. At The Optical Centre, we work with Longmont families to diagnose, treat, and manage refractive errors like myopia and hyperopia at every age. Book your comprehensive eye exam to see better—and feel better—every step of the way.
Hyperopia vs. Myopia FAQs
Can myopia be reversed?
Myopia can’t be reversed, but it can be managed. Treatments like ortho-k and specialized lenses can help slow progression.
What causes myopia in children?
Myopia can be hereditary and worsened by lifestyle factors like prolonged screen time or limited outdoor play.
How are refractive errors diagnosed?
Through a comprehensive eye exam that measures how your eyes focus light and checks for signs of eye strain or other eye conditions.