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  • Why am I struggling to focus when reading?

    APR 21, 2019

    Question:

    My eyes struggle to focus when I’m reading. It’s not blurry but I struggle to focus on the word I’m on. Any idea what this is?


    Answer:

    This may be due to the progressive loss of the ability to focus near, which on average begins at age 40. The process is called presbyopia and the solution is reading glasses. If you are significantly younger than 40, it may be that you are farsighted or possibly a childhood strabismus (misaligned eyes), that was not symptomatic but is starting to become evident. Dry eyes can also cause symptoms like this. Also, other conditions like myasthenia gravis or Parkinson’s can cause similar symptoms. A visit to an ophthalmologist is necessary to determine if any of these things are the case or perhaps some other issue.


    Answered By: Gary S Hirshfield MD

    Dry Eye Amblyopia, Strabismus and Lazy Eye Glasses, Contacts and Vision Correction
  • Ask an Ophthalmologist

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  • Not every question will receive a direct response from an ophthalmologist. However, we will follow up with suggested ways to find appropriate information related to your question. Medical disclaimer

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    Ask a Question

    Not every question will receive a direct response from an ophthalmologist. However, we will follow up with suggested ways to find appropriate information related to your question. Medical disclaimer

    By submitting your question, you agree to be answered by email. Your email address will only be used to answer your question unless you are an Academy member or are subscribed to Academy newsletters.

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