Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a vision condition in which the crystalline lens
of your eye loses its flexibility, which makes it difficult for you to focus on
close objects.
Presbyopia may seem to occur suddenly, but the actual loss of flexibility takes
place over a number of years. Presbyopia usually becomes noticeable in the early
to mid-forties. Presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process of the eye. It
is not a disease and it cannot be prevented.
Some signs of presbyopia include the tendency to hold reading materials at
arm's length, blurred vision at normal reading distance and eye fatigue along
with headaches when doing close work. A comprehensive optometric examination
will include testing for presbyopia.
To help you compensate for presbyopia, your optometrist can prescribe reading
glasses, bifocals, trifocals or contact lenses. Since presbyopia can complicate
other common vision conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness and
astigmatism, your optometrist will determine the specific lenses to allow you to
see clearly and comfortably. You may only need to wear your glasses for close
work like reading, but you may find that wearing them all the time is more
convenient and beneficial for your vision needs.
Since the effects of presbyopia continue to change the ability of the
crystalline lens to focus properly, periodic changes in your eyewear may be
necessary to maintain clear and comfortable vision.
