Many people notice that after the age of 40, they gradually begin holding their book or phone farther away in order to read the text clearly. If this sounds familiar, the most likely cause is presbyopia — a natural age-related change in the eye, also known as age-related farsightedness.
What is presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a reduced ability of the eye to focus on nearby objects. As we age, the eye’s natural lens gradually loses its elasticity and can no longer change shape sufficiently to provide clear near vision. This condition is a normal part of the ageing process and affects almost everyone.
What are the most common symptoms of presbyopia?
- Holding your phone, book, or newspaper farther away from your eyes in order to focus on the text
- Blurred vision when reading
- Difficulty using a phone, tablet, or reading a book
- Eye fatigue or strain after prolonged reading
- Headaches
- Needing brighter lighting when reading
The first symptoms usually appear after the age of 40 or 45. Many people do not initially recognise the symptoms and may attribute their discomfort to tiredness or prolonged computer use.
If you recognise some of these symptoms, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye examination.
If you are beginning to hold your phone or book farther away, or notice that you need reading glasses, this may be one of the first signs of presbyopia.
Learn more about the condition, its causes, and the modern options available for its correction.
How is presbyopia diagnosed?
Presbyopia is diagnosed during an ophthalmological examination. Regular eye examinations are particularly important after the age of 40, as they can help detect other eye conditions at an early stage.
Can presbyopia be prevented?
There is no method that can prevent the natural ageing of the eye’s lens. However, regular eye examinations, good visual hygiene, a balanced diet, and protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation can help maintain good overall eye health.
What are the treatment options?
Presbyopia cannot be prevented, but vision can be successfully corrected.
Until now, the main options for people with presbyopia have included reading glasses, progressive lenses, or contact lenses.
Today, for the first time in Bulgaria, patients have access to PresbyMAX® — an advanced laser technology that, in carefully selected patients, can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for reading glasses.
PresbyMAX® is a high-technology laser procedure specifically developed for the correction of presbyopia.
Through highly precise reshaping of the cornea, the procedure creates conditions for improved vision at near, intermediate, and far distances. The goal is to help patients regain greater freedom in their everyday activities without constantly relying on reading glasses.
Learn more about PresbyMAX® and the different treatment options for presbyopia at VISION.
Or schedule a consultation to find out which method is most suitable for you.
