When Near Vision Becomes Difficult
Many people around the age of 40 start noticing a common and confusing problem. Reading messages on the phone becomes difficult, small print looks blurred, and the arms slowly move farther away while trying to read. At the same time, distance vision often feels perfectly comfortable.
This change is called presbyopia, and it is a natural age-related process, not an eye disease.
Presbyopia happens because, with age, the natural lens inside the eye gradually loses its flexibility. When we are younger, the lens easily adjusts to focus on near objects. After 40, this ability reduces, making close work like reading, stitching, mobile use, or computer work more difficult. That is why many people say, “Doctor, I can see far clearly, but near vision is troubling me.”
A very common myth is that mobile phones or excessive reading cause presbyopia. This is not true. Presbyopia happens to everyone, whether they use screens or not. However, prolonged screen use can increase eye strain and make the problem more noticeable.
Many people try to manage by increasing the distance of the phone, using brighter lights, or avoiding reading glasses altogether. While these tricks may help temporarily, they often lead to headaches, eye fatigue, and discomfort. The simplest and safest solution is proper near-vision glasses , which reduce strain and make daily tasks comfortable again. Wearing reading glasses does not weaken the eyes.
Another worry patients have is, “Once I start glasses, will the number keep increasing?”
Presbyopia progresses slowly and usually stabilises by the mid-50s. Regular eye check-ups help maintain the right power and also rule out other age-related eye conditions such as early cataract or raised eye pressure.
For people who do not want separate reading glasses, options like bifocal or progressive lenses allow clear distance and near vision in the same pair. Some patients may also be suitable for advanced vision correction options, depending on eye health and lifestyle. A detailed eye evaluation at a well-equipped and trusted eye care centre helps decide what suits best.
In simple words
If you are above 40 and struggling with near vision while distance vision is fine, it is most likely presbyopia. It is a normal change that comes with age. With the right guidance, simple solutions, and regular eye examinations at a reputed and patient-focused eye clinic in Seawoods, Navi Mumbai, clear and comfortable vision can be maintained for years.
-- Dr. Sonal Hinge
Ophthalmologist
EyeLens Hospital, Seawoods, Navi Mumbai
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