•Dr Priscilia Imade
Happy new month dear readers. We will be discussing various eye conditions and diseases this month of May, we are starting with presbyopia.
INTRODUCTION
Presbyopia is a natural, age-related change in vision that affects the ability to see objects clearly at close range.
It is not a disease, but a normal part of ageing that typically becomes noticeable from about the age of 40.
For many Nigerians, presbyopia quietly disrupts daily life making it difficult to read text messages, newspapers, medication labels, or even perform detailed work.
HOW PRESBYOPIA OCCURS
Inside the eye is a clear structure called the lens. In youth, this lens is soft and flexible, allowing it to easily change shape and focus on nearby objects. As we grow older, the lens gradually becomes stiffer and loses its flexibility. This makes it harder for the eye to focus on close objects, leading to blurred near vision.
COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Presbyopia develops gradually and many people may not notice it immediately.
However, common signs include:
1) Difficulty reading small print
2) Holding reading materials farther away to see clearly
3) Eye strain or headaches after close of work
4) Blurred vision at near distances
5) Increased need for brighter lighting when reading.
These symptoms often worsen over time if not properly addressed.
IMPACT OF PRESBYOPIA
Although presbyopia is universal, its impact can be significant especially in communities where access to basic eye care is limited.
Many individuals mistake it for general “weak eyes” or ignore it altogether, leading to unnecessary discomfort and reduced productivity.
In a country like Nigeria, where many livelihoods depend on detailed manual work, untreated presbyopia can affect artisans, traders, teachers and healthcare workers alike.
PRESBYOPIA CORRECTION
The good news is that presbyopia is easily correctable. Solutions include:
1) Reading glasses: Simple and affordable, used only for near tasks
2) Bifocal lenses: Glasses with two distinct viewing zones for distance and near
3) Progressive lenses: Advanced lenses that provide a smooth transition between distances
4) Contact lenses: Special designs that correct both near and distance vision.
An eye examination by a qualified optometrist is essential to determine the most suitable option.
IMPORTANCE OF EYE EXAMINATION
Regular eye examination is necessary not just for presbyopia, but for detecting other eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataract, and diabetic eye disease. Many people assume that difficulty with near vision is the only issue, but a comprehensive examination can reveal much more.
CONCLUSION
Presbyopia may be a natural part of ageing, but struggling with it should not be. Clear near vision is essential for quality of life, independence, and productivity.
If you are over 40 and finding it difficult to read or perform close tasks, it is time to visit an eye care professional. A simple pair of glasses can restore clarity and comfort almost instantly.
At community and national levels, increasing awareness and access to affordable corrective lenses can significantly reduce the burden of avoidable visual impairment.
Presbyopia reminds us that ageing brings changes but with the right care, those changes do not have to limit us.
Clear vision is not a luxury; it is a necessity for living well, working efficiently, and staying connected in today’s world.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
