Presbyopia is a natural part of aging that typically begins around age 40. As we age, the lens of the eye and its surrounding muscles lose flexibility, making it harder to focus on close-up objects. This results in blurred near vision, requiring individuals to hold reading materials at arm’s length to see them clearly. The condition can worsen until around age 65.
Is Presbyopia the Same as Farsightedness?
No. While both conditions affect near vision, farsightedness is caused by distortions in the shape of the eyeball, whereas presbyopia occurs due to the lens losing flexibility with age.
Symptoms of Presbyopia
- Holding reading materials farther away to see clearly.
- Blurred vision when reading at a normal distance.
- Eyestrain, fatigue, or headaches after prolonged close-up work.
- Worsened symptoms in dim lighting or when tired.
Causes and Risk Factors
Presbyopia is a refractive vision disorder caused by the lens hardening with age. As a result, light focuses behind the retina instead of directly on it, making close-up images appear blurry.
Some individuals may notice presbyopia as early as 35, but most begin experiencing symptoms in their 40s. Risk factors that may worsen presbyopia include:
- Dim lighting conditions.
- Fatigue or excessive screen use.
- Alcohol consumption.
- Existing vision conditions, such as nearsightedness.
Diagnosis of Presbyopia
Your eye care provider will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose presbyopia and recommend the most suitable corrective options for your vision needs.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
- Reading Glasses: Over-the-counter reading glasses may be sufficient for those with otherwise good vision.
- Prescription Eyeglasses: Bifocals or progressive lenses correct both near and distant vision. Bifocals have a distinct line separating the prescriptions, while progressive lenses provide a gradual transition.
- Contact Lenses:
- Bifocal Contact Lenses: These provide different prescription strengths in one lens.
- Monovision Contact Lenses: One lens corrects distance vision while the other corrects near vision. Adjusting to monovision may take practice.
Surgical Treatment Options
For those seeking a more permanent solution, several surgical procedures can improve presbyopia:
- Conductive Keratoplasty (CK): Uses radiofrequency energy to reshape the cornea for improved near vision.
- Laser Surgery: Various laser procedures can modify corneal shape to enhance focus.
- Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): Removes the natural lens and replaces it with a synthetic intraocular lens to correct vision.
Managing Presbyopia
Since presbyopia continues to progress, you may need to update your eyewear periodically. If you experience difficulty with close-up vision, eyestrain, or headaches, consult your eye care provider to discuss the best treatment options. Whether you prefer glasses, contact lenses, or surgery, we can help you find a solution that fits your lifestyle and vision needs.