Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a process that occurs during the natural course of aging and may be first noticed around age 40, when the ability to focus on near objects is diminished. Over time, the natural crystalline lens gradually loses its elasticity and becomes thicker, the curvature of the lens also changes and the muscles that allow the lens to focus become weak. Presbyopia can occur in those who have never before experienced a vision problem. Those who are nearsighted may suddenly notice a near-vision blur when they wear their usual corrective lenses for distance vision. This condition differs from astigmatism, nearsightedness and farsightedness, which are related to the shape of the eyeball and are caused by genetic and environmental factors.

In fact, presbyopia is widespread in the United States. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, over 135 million Americans were age 40 and older in 2008, and the country continues to growing older: The median age reached 36.8 in 2008, up by 1.5 years since 2000. This growing number of older citizens generates a huge demand for eyewear, contact lenses and surgery that can help presbyopes deal with their failing vision.

Presbyopia Symptoms and Signs

As a person becomes presbyopic, it may be necessary to hold reading materials at arm's length in order to focus properly. When performing close-up tasks, such as handwriting or needlepoint, eyestrain, a headache or a general feeling of fatigue may result.

Presbyopia Treatment - Eyewear and Surgery

Eyeglasses with bifocal or progressive addition lenses (PALs) are the most common correction for presbyopia, while reading glasses are another very common choice. Unlike bifocals and PALs, which most people wear all day, reading glasses typically are worn only during the period of time when near vision is needed the most. Presbyopes can also opt for multifocal contact lenses.

Several surgical options are available to treat presbyopia such as PresbyLASIK, MonovisionLASIK, Refractive Lens Exchange and Presbyopia-Correcting Intraocular lenses (IOLs).

The cataract surgeons of RGB Eye Associates are pleased to offer premium intraocular lenses to their cataract patients - Crystalens and AcrySof ReSTOR not only correct cataracts, but at the same time correct the inability to focus on near objects (called far-sightedness or presbyopia).

For more information on premium intraocular lenses or to schedule an evaluation, call RGB Eye Associates today at 903.892.3282.