Presbyopia is a condition in which the lens of the eye loses its ability to focus. The condition is associated with aging and is progressive (gets worse). People who have presbyopia have difficulty seeing objects close-up.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The focusing power of the eye depends on the elasticity of the lens. This elasticity is gradually lost as people age. The result is a slow decrease in the ability of the eye to focus on nearby objects.
People usually notice the condition around age 45, when they realize that they need to hold reading materials further away in order to focus on them. Presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process and affects everyone.
Symptoms:
Decreased focusing ability for near objects
Eyestrain
Headache
Signs and tests:
A general eye examination will be performed, including measurements to determine a prescription for glasses or contact lenses.
Review Date: 5/19/2006
Reviewed By: Paul B. Griggs, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
General Eye Care
