Presbyopia

What is Presbyopia?

Presbyopia is a visual condition which becomes apparent especially in middle age and in which loss of elasticity of the lens of the eye causes defective accommodation and inability to focus sharply for near vision. It is the most common cause of visual impairment in older adults.

The condition begins usually around the age of 40 years. Due to lack of proper awareness and poor affordability due to economic background, presbyopes do not get the condition corrected in developing countries.

Causes

The major cause of presbyopia is decrease in the accommodative capacity of the lens due its increased stiffness. Various theories have been implicated to determine the exact aetiology and all these theories depict anterior central lens capsule steepening during accommodation.

Certain medical conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis and cardiovascular diseases can increase the risk of developing presbyopia.

Sign and symptoms

The patient will complain of difficulty in reading finer prints from a usual reading distance. The near visual acuity will improve if the reading distance is increased slightly beyond the usual reading distance. Headache is the most commonly associated symptom.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis and evaluation of the condition is usually subjective. Patients are asked to keep the near reading target at usual reading distance and the lenses are added.

General management

Taking proper eye care and use of spectacles for difficult vision is the treatment of choice.

Warning: Above information provided is an overview of the disease, we strongly recommend a doctor's consultation to prevent further advancement of disease and/or development of complications.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein on request, is not to be taken as a replacement for medical advice or diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. DO NOT SELF MEDICATE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN FOR PROPER DIAGNOSIS AND PRESCRIPTION.