1. Use Contact Lenses, Glasses and Other Visual-Mechanical Aides
Optometrists have decades of practice prescribing lenses to correct for farsightedness. In the most simple cases, the problem can be solved with a one-time corrective lens prescription. Eyeglasses, contact lenses, monovision lenses or any combination of lenses can improve your quality of life and allow you to do critical activities (such as read, take exams and drive at night). That said, remember that your prescription needs will likely change over time, depending on your stress level, diet, age, overall health and other factors that can impact your visual system.
2. Drugs and Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications
If your eye specialist determines that your farsightedness is causing (or is being caused) by another condition that can be treated with medication, you may find significant relief using drug therapy. For instance, if you suffer a neurodegenerative problem that presents as distorted vision, your physician can prescribe an anticonvulsant. Alternatively, if an inflammation of the optic nerve is blurring your near-field vision, you may find an anti-inflammatory drug or an immunosuppressant medication helpful.
3. Surgery for the Curvature of the Cornea
There are four major types of refractive surgeries commonly employed. Conductive keratoplasty utilizes heat radiation to melt and remold the cornea. Laser assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) and laser assisted in-situ keratectomy (LASIK) involve literally cutting into the cornea (or cover of the cornea) to adjust its shape and alleviate the farsightedness. Finally, photorefractive keratectomy involves a more wholesale surgical incision into the cornea (taking out the entire epithelium). These surgeries have varying degrees of success in treating the condition and varying side effects and complications. Discuss your options with your eye specialist and know the risks and rewards before moving forward.
