Presbyopia in San Antonio, TX
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Contact UsWhat Is Presbyopia?
As an individual approaches the age of 40, their near vision typically begins to decline. This change in vision is known as presbyopia, and it limits the ability to focus on objects that are near the eyes. It is a normal, very routine part of the aging process. It develops because, as we age, certain parts of our eyes basically begin to lose flexibility. Almost everyone, even individuals who have had clear vision their entire lives, could begin to notice that they have to hold medicine bottles or other objects away from their eyes to read them. Some may also start to get headaches or eye fatigue from activities that never bothered them previously. At her San Antonio, TX practice, leading optometrist Dr. Victoria Perez can talk to you about effective options to improve your vision if you have developed age-associated blurred vision. If you suspect that you are experiencing presbyopia, come in for a comprehensive eye exam at Texas State Optical Bandera so we can help bring back optimal vision.
What Are the Symptoms of Presbyopia?
Presbyopia typically begins near 40 years of age and, if ignored, its symptoms can become more pronounced. Some of the symptoms older adults experience include:
- Inability to focus on items that are close up
- The need to position objects at an arm's distance
- Headaches or aching eyes after reading or using a mobile device
- Blurred vision
What Causes Presbyopia?
While the majority of refractive visual errors are caused by abnormal eye shape, age-related vision impairment is not. The proteins that are part of the eye's lens are impacted by age, particularly after someone turns 40 years of age, causing the lens to harden and become less malleable. The aging process also influences the muscle fibers wrapped around the lens. They slowly grow weaker and less responsive. Therefore, it becomes more difficult for the lens to change shape, which it needs to do in order to focus. All of these changes within the eye continue naturally as we age, meaning presbyopia slowly becomes more pronounced over time.
How Is Presbyopia Treated?
The majority of people control their presbyopia with corrective eyeglasses with certain types of lenses. Of these special lenses, bifocal and progressive lenses are the most frequently chosen. Progressive lenses act just like multifocal lenses but look exactly like general lenses, as they don't have obvious lines. Progressive lenses can correct vision at multiple distances. Bifocal lenses most often have a line close to the bottom half that begins the area used for up-close vision. Both of these lenses can also be wise treatments if you have further refractive errors along with presbyopia. Some people with presbyopia like to just use reading glasses (often known as readers) and remove them when they aren't needed for up-close tasks.
Multifocal contacts can also be used to bring back sharp vision, and monovision contacts are a terrific option for patients who have developed both presbyopia and myopia. Plus, there are a few surgical procedures that can potentially be effective in reducing the effects of presbyopia. Dr. Perez will be able to steer you toward the best possible form of treatment and determine whether you might be a candidate for particular surgical treatments.
Texas State Optical Bandera Reviews
From the time you walk into this building, you are greeted with kindness and respect the entire staff is very professional in the services they render. Trust me, when you go, you will not be disappointed…..
Enjoyed my visit, super clean and everyone is friendly.
Top notch Drs and staff. Best of the best equipment to keep an eye on your eyes. Hella important in general, but especially as you get older and/or have health issues. I wouldn’t trust anyone else & I go yearly without fail. Pricy for glasses but you won’t find better quality. My Zeiss lenses were some of the best I’ve ever had until I messed them up. 😑 Seriously, if I hadn’t impulsively purchased a new pair of glasses at Costco solely because new things sometimes make me feel better, I’d be waiting for a new pair now. Both my husband and I wouldn’t go anywhere else.
Dr Williamson was excellent; she did a very thorough eye exam and went over the details with me. It was one of the best eye exams I’ve had and I’ve worn glasses my whole life.
Great experience!! Dr Annette Williamson and the entire staff are helpful and informative. Friendly customer service. All my questions were answered. Thank you!
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How Is Presbyopia Diagnosed?
Dr. Perez will want to perform a comprehensive eye exam to properly determine whether you have presbyopia. She might also conduct a series of vision tests to establish the degree of the presbyopia and find the level of correction necessary. Because presbyopia is a condition that is associated with the eye’s lens, we might need to use a certain kind of eye drops to enlarge your pupils. The dilation will enable Dr. Perez to closely examine the inner parts of your eyes and determine how well your lenses are doing their jobs. With these tests, she will be able to prescribe the best steps to take for your particular case.
Learn More About Texas State Optical Bandera
About UsFight Age-Related Vision Loss
Problems with close-up vision, especially in people past 40 years old, are almost always presbyopia. Presbyopia is a normal, age-related refractive error. It is extremely common and manageable with prescription lenses. At Texas State Optical Bandera, our amazing team of optometrists can help you say goodbye to the challenges of reduced near vision. Call us today at our San Antonio, TX practice for your comprehensive eye exam.
Presbyopia FAQs
At what age does presbyopia typically begin to affect vision?
Presbyopia usually starts to affect vision around the age of 40. The ability to see close objects clearly gradually diminishes and individuals may notice they need to hold reading materials further away to see them. This condition progresses over time, typically stabilizing by age 65 when the lens loses most of its flexibility.
Can presbyopia occur in younger individuals?
Yes, while presbyopia is most common after age 40, it can occur in younger individuals, a condition known as premature presbyopia. Risk factors for early onset include certain medications (such as antidepressants and antihistamines), medical conditions like diabetes and multiple sclerosis, and a history of significant eye strain or head trauma. These factors can accelerate the loss of lens elasticity, leading to earlier symptoms of presbyopia.
How can I prevent or delay the onset of presbyopia?
While presbyopia is a natural part of aging and cannot be completely prevented, regular eye exams, protecting your eyes from UV radiation, managing chronic health conditions, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help slow its progression. Using proper lighting, avoiding prolonged eye strain, and following a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can also contribute to overall eye health and potentially delay the onset of presbyopia.