What Complications Can Untreated Farsightedness Cause?

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition of the eye where the optic nerve becomes damaged, and this damage progressively worsens over time. This usually happens as a result of built-up pressure within the eye. Eyes that are smaller can develop a form of this condition called angle-closure. This occurs when the location where fluid would normally drain out of the eye between the cornea and iris becomes too narrow, significantly slowing or blocking the movement of fluid out of the eye. The accumulation of this fluid results in the acute buildup of pressure within the eye, causing injury to the optic nerve responsible for transmitting images an individual sees to their brain. The injury happens because the pressure causes the death of some of the optic neuron cells or ganglion cells. The reason why patients who have untreated farsightedness tend to develop angle-closure is farsighted eyes are typically smaller in stature. Small eyes have narrow angles and shallow anterior chambers. Untreated farsightedness can exacerbate the effects these characteristics have on the individual's vision, including the development of optic nerve injury from excessive eye pressure.