​As most people over 40 can attest to, we get to a point where our near vision starts to change and we can lose the ability to focus on close objects. This condition, called presbyopia, is an age-related condition which, if uncorrected or under-corrected, can significantly impact our quality of life.   

Presbyopia is thought to be caused by a loss of flexibility or an increase in size and hardening of the lens and/or the muscle fibers surrounding the lens inside the eye. While there is no way of avoiding it, there are several options to improve this vision change including:
    1) Reading glasses: This is the simplest and most common solution for presbyopia. Reading 
      glasses are designed to help people see objects up close, though they will make the distance vision
      blurred when wearing reading glasses.
    2) Bifocal lenses: Bifocal lenses have two prescriptions in one lens: one for distance vision and
     another for near vision separated by a line in the lens. This can be a good option for people who
     need glasses correction to see both far and near objects.
    3) Progressive lenses: Progressive lenses are similar to bifocal lenses but with a more gradual
​    change in power from the top to the bottom of the lens. This allows for a more natural transition
    between distance and near vision. It does not have the line in the lens like a bifocal so many prefer
    this option for cosmetic reasons.
   4) Multifocal contact lens: Multifocal contact lenses are designed to provide both distance and near
   vision correction in one lens. They are available in both soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) varieties.
   These lenses often require a compromise to the clarity of our overall vision.
   5) Monovision contact lenses: Monovision involves using one contact lens for distance vision and
   the other for near vision. This technique can take some time to get used to, but it can be an effective
   option for some people.
   6) Refractive surgery: Refractive surgery, such as LASIK, PRK, or refractive lens exchange, can also
    be used to correct presbyopia. LASIK and PRK involve reshaping the cornea to improve vision at all
   distances. A refractive lens exchange is a procedure similar to cataract surgery in which the natural     lens of our eye is replaced with an artificial lens that has various focal points to allow for clear
   vision at all distances.
   7) Pupil modulation eyedrops: These eyedrops are a newly approved treatment option for presbyopia
   that are currently only available in the US. They are a miotic drops, which means it causes a pinhole
   effect by making the pupil contract. This mimics the eye’s natural ability to focus, allowing for
   greater vision at near. Initial studies show that these drops last up to 6 hours. Some of the main side
   effects include headaches, redness, blurred vision and eye pain.

If you’ve started struggling with blurred near vision, eye strain, or an increase in headaches with near work, book an appointment with our optometrist to discuss these options and determine which option is best for you.   

     

     Macular degeneration is a medical condition that affects the central part of the retina called the macula. The macula is responsible for our central vision which allows us to see fine details and colors clearly and is necessary for activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

     Macular degeneration occurs when the macula deteriorates, causing a gradual loss of central vision. This condition can affect one or both eyes and can progress slowly over time or more rapidly.

    There are two main types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration is the more common type and occurs when the macula thins and drusen form in the retina. Drusen are made up of lipids, proteins, and other materials that accumulate between the layers of the retina. Wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak blood and fluid, causing damage to the macula.

    Macular drusen and deterioration can be detected at our clinic during your dilated eye exam or through imaging tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT). If a significant number of drusen are present, our eye doctor may monitor the condition closely or recommend lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce the risk of developing AMD.

    Risk factors for macular degeneration include age, family history, smoking, and high blood pressure. Symptoms may include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and a blind spot in the center of the visual field.
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    While there is no cure for macular degeneration, treatments such as injections to prevent new blood vessels forming in the retina, laser therapy, and photodynamic therapy can help slow or stop the progression of the disease and preserve remaining vision. It is important to consult your eye doctor if you notice any changes in your vision or if you have any concerns about macular degeneration.