What Is Presbyopia?

As we get older, we notice natural changes in our body, such as smile lines around our eyes and diminished hearing abilities. Another natural change associated with aging is presbyopia. You may wonder, what is presbyopia? It is when our eyes start to take a bit longer to focus on nearby objects.

What Causes Presbyopia?

When light enters your cornea (the front portion of your eye), the clear lens behind your colored iris will flex and change shape so you can focus on nearby and far away objects. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, your lens loses some of its flexibility around age 40. This rigidity can cause difficulty focusing on close-up objects, such as the book you’re reading.

Who Is at Risk for Developing It?

Nearly everyone develops presbyopia after the age of 40; however, some people can experience it at younger ages because of other health conditions. For example, you may have it if you already have one of these diseases:

• Diabetes
• Multiple sclerosis
• Cardiovascular disease

Additionally, the condition can be a side effect of certain medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics.

Do I Need to Treat Presbyopia?

Most individuals want to treat their presbyopia simply because it can be frustrating to complete daily tasks without being able to see close-up objects. Additionally, you may experience regular headaches or eye strain if you allow presbyopia to continue. These symptoms won’t cause permanent damage to your eyes, but can definitely cause serious discomfort throughout your daily life.

How Can I Treat Presbyopia?

Although there is no cure for presbyopia, experts recommend treating presbyopia by using reading glasses or contact lenses. With EyeQue’s VisionCheck, you can find the lens strength you need to order on the go or from your home. Your test results will let you know the strength of reading glasses you need. For any eye care concerns, we recommend you talk to an eye care professional.