Presbyopia is a condition of the eye that naturally occurs as it ages. It commonly refers to the lost of the ability to focus and see things that are near. Many adults with this condition struggle to see the smaller writing in their day to day activities.
Presbyopia is a natural aging process of the eye where the elasticity of the lens reduces. The lens, located inside of the eye, is a flexible disk that is supported by many muscles. When the lens is not flexible it is difficult for the eye to focus. Also, when the muscles supporting the lens are not flexible it too can make focusing difficult.
Many people notice the signs of presbyopia when they try to read the small print of printed materials. Others may notice when they use a computer or practice hobbies that require attention to fine details. The presbyopic eye is simply unable to accommodate for near vision.
Although the condition typically begins in the mid-60s, some people may notice it in their 40s. The condition then increases with age. Even adults who have always been nearsighted, meaning they have difficulty seeing distance, can develop presbyopia.
For some, dealing with presbyopia is a simple lifestyle change. Reading larger print or with more light can help inflexible lens focus better and make it easier to read. Many people find that holding items at a distance may improve vision, since presbyopia affects near vision. The majority of people use reading glasses when needing to see up close or use magnifiers. Adults with glasses for nearsightedness may switch to bifocal or progressive lens to improve their near vision.
For those preferring surgery there are a few options. LASIK in one eye to correct nearsightedness (monovision) can reduce symptoms of presbyopia. Lens replacement surgery places an artificial lens where the inflexible lens was, restoring the eye’s ability to focus. Cataract surgery has also improved the symptoms of presbyopia in some patients.
Presbyopia should not be ignored. When the eye is unnecessarily strained it can lead to fatigue and headaches. Also, repeated strain on the eyes can worsen the condition faster than if left untreated. By using magnification options or surgery this unnecessary strain can be prevented.
If reading the fine print is becoming harder every day it may be the beginning of presbyopia. By seeing an ophthalmologist, it can easily be diagnosed, and appropriate accommodations can be made. With some little changes or perhaps even dramatic surgery, you can once again be able to see all the little things.
When it comes to information about Presbyopia, getting the right info can be challenging. That is why we have put together this source for all your eyes and vision after forty questions and answers.
Tags: eye care, eyes, health, Health and Fitness, presbyopia, vision
