Presbyopia is a natural age-related vision condition that affects nearly everyone, typically beginning around age 40. It occurs when the eye’s lens gradually loses its flexibility, making it difficult to focus on close objects. This condition develops progressively over time and is considered a normal part of aging, affecting approximately 1.8 billion people worldwide.
The eye’s lens works much like a camera lens, changing shape to focus light onto the retina. In our younger years, the lens is soft and flexible, easily changing shape to focus on objects at varying distances. However, as we age, the lens proteins begin to harden, and the surrounding muscles become less effective, reducing the eye’s ability to shift focus from distant to near objects.
How Do You Know If You Have Presbyopia?
If you find yourself holding reading materials at arm’s length, experiencing eye strain, or needing brighter lighting to read, you might be developing presbyopia. A couple of other common symptoms include getting headaches after reading or having difficulty seeing small print.
You might also notice increased difficulty transitioning between viewing distances, such as looking up from your computer to across the room and back again. These focusing challenges often become more pronounced when you’re tired or working in low-light conditions.
It’s important to recognize that presbyopia differs from farsightedness (hyperopia), though the symptoms may seem similar. Hyperopia is a refractive error present from birth.
Treatment Options
LASIK or Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA): While traditional laser surgery doesn’t directly correct presbyopia, monovision LASIK can help by adjusting each eye for different distances.
Lens Replacement Surgery: This procedure replaces your natural lens with an artificial one designed to restore some focusing ability.
Take the Next Step
Don’t let presbyopia affect your quality of life. At Vision For Life, Dr. Horn specializes in the latest presbyopia treatments. We invite you to schedule a comprehensive eye exam today and set your sights on the path of clear vision. Early intervention often provides more treatment options and better outcomes for maintaining clear vision throughout your life.
