As people age, they may find it harder to read small print, needing to hold books farther away to see clearly. At the same time, cataracts can also cause blurry vision. So, what exactly is the difference between presbyopia and cataracts? And can they occur together?
Presbyopia is a natural aging process that causes the eye’s focusing ability to decline. It usually starts in people over 40, making it difficult to see objects up close. Cataracts, on the other hand, occur when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision. While cataracts are more common in people over 60, they can also develop earlier due to diabetes, injury, or genetic factors.
Dr. Oh Young-sam, the chief ophthalmologist at Gangnam IOK Eye Clinic, explains, “Presbyopia is a gradual loss of near vision, while cataracts are a medical condition that can progress to blindness if left untreated.” He warns, “Many people mistakenly assume cataracts are just a part of aging and delay seeking treatment.” Dr. Oh further explains, “As cataracts progress, symptoms such as glare, difficulty driving at night, and reduced color perception may appear, making early diagnosis crucial.”
So, what are the solutions? Presbyopia can be managed with reading glasses or multifocal lenses, while cataracts require medical treatment. The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery, which involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens. Recent advancements allow for the use of multifocal intraocular lenses, which can correct both cataracts and presbyopia simultaneously.
According to the Korean Ophthalmological Society, over 70% of people over 60 experience cataracts. However, most patients delay treatment until their symptoms become severe. Dr. Oh emphasizes, “Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for cataract management, and regular eye check-ups can help prevent serious complications.”
While both presbyopia and cataracts lead to vision deterioration, they are fundamentally different conditions. If you’ve noticed difficulty reading up close, blurry vision, or increased sensitivity to light, it may be more than just presbyopia. Why not consult an eye specialist to ensure your vision stays clear?
[Column provided by]
Dr. Oh Young-sam, Chief Ophthalmologist at Gangnam IOK Eye Clinic
02-6949-0088
www.iokeyes.com
https://blog.naver.com/iokoys
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