If you are over 40, have you suddenly discovered a new need to reach for the ‘readers’ or hold your phone at arm’s length to better focus on the screen? The reason is most likely Presbyopia. Originally a Greek term that when translated means ‘old eye’, Presbyopia, is a very common phenomenon in patients over 40 years old. SoCal Eye Doctors diagnose and treat Presbyopia in Long Beach every day and a number of different treatments are available.
What is Presbyopia?
It is the most common vision impairment condition today and involves the reduced ability for someone to focus on nearby objects. In some cases it is termed as ‘farsightedness’ and is caused by the loss of elasticity in the lens of the eye. The lenses harden gradually over time making it difficult for the eye to focus light from near objects directly on the retina. Instead, light focuses behind the retina. At the same time, the muscle fibers around the lenses grow less effective, making it harder to discern nearby objects, like small screens or books. Fuzzy vision from Presbyopia is a natural, often annoying part of aging and usually becomes noticeable in the early to mid-40s and continues to worsen until around age 65.
Detection and Diagnosis
In most cases Presbyopia creeps in gradually and the realization that reading glasses might help is the first sign. Self-detection and realization is most common. The symptoms are pretty easy to spot. Focusing on small print or details can be a challenge and appear fuzzy. This fuzzy vision is exacerbated in low light settings and a need for a reading light or a flashlight to read a menu in a restaurant is not uncommon.
Presbyopia Risk Factors
The condition generally begins after 40 although premature signs can occur. Conditions such as anemia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and multiple sclerosis put you at higher risk of premature presbyopia. Untreated, presbyopia can cause headaches and eye fatigue but largely the risks are related to occupational type functions that become impacted by the fuzzy vision
How is Presbyopia Treated?
The most common solution to Presbyopia is a pair of reading glasses but often times this can become confusing and chaotic as people juggle glasses. According to the experts at SoCal Eye, prescription multifocal eyeglasses or contact lenses are a better solution and make it possible to see both near and far away. Alternatively, if the condition becomes hard to manage a surgery known a Refractive Lens Exchange will replace the lens with a replacement Intraocular Lens in a similar way to cataract surgery.
SoCal Eye Consultation:
The key to success with Treatment for Presbyopia starts with a Comprehensive Eye Exam. SoCal Eye doctors will be able to walk you through the options for Presbyopia in Long Beach. Appointment today at LAKEWOOD (562) 531-2020 | LOS ALAMITOS (562) 598-7728 or send us an Online Consultation Request
