Book a Free Consultation
Book a Call Back
01-2238821

Does Constant Reading Hurt my Eyesight?

If you are an avid reader of everything from the daily newspaper to the latest best-selling paperback, you will rely to a greater extent on your eyes working effectively at all times.

 

However, if you are over forty and find yourself holding material at arm’s length or squinting to make out the small print, it may be because your eyes’ ability to focus quickly and clearly has diminished.

 

Presbyopia is an age-related condition that is caused by parts of the eye succumbing to the ageing process. It affects how well the eye is able to focus on objects up close, which is why presbyopia is commonly treated with reading glasses.

What can I do to help my eyes stay young?

Presbyopia becomes apparent over a period of time when the lens and the ciliary muscle that control how it get stiffer and  less flexible.

 

It is worth getting your eyes checked every two years to monitor any changes in your vision, but if you already begrudgingly use reading glasses, then it may be worth exploring the alternatives out there:

 

KAMRA: A lens with a small opening in the centre is inserted into the cornea of the non-dominant eye to create a pinhole effect in the centre of the pupil. This produces a greater depth of focus by centralizing light entering the eye so clear near vision is restored.

 

PRESBIA: A microlens is inserted into a small pocket created in the cornea of the patient’s non-dominant eye to improve near vision. The microlens allows light rays to be focused correctly at the back of the eye.

Reducing eye strain

When reading, make sure there is enough light to see the text comfortably but avoid over exposure to really bright light – reading outdoors in direct sunlight can cause you to squint.

 

Avoid reading in dull or low light conditions, as the eye is forced to work harder which can lead to eye strain or headaches.

 

It is worth taking regular breaks to rest the eyes, which means putting down your book, even if you’re dying to see what happens next.

 

The same principle applies to study or work, because you won’t absorb as much information or see errors when eyes are tired. If you can get up and walk around to get the circulation going and increase the flow of oxygen to the brain and eyes.

 

To find out more about alternatives to reading glasses, book your free consultation on +353 1 223 8821 or visit www.optilase.com/reading-glasses/

More to Explore

The A-Z of Eye Surgery from Optilase, Ireland’s top Private Eye Clinic

12 Mar 2021
Read more

Great News for Cataract Patients with Near Vision Problems

08 Jul 2013
Read more

Laser Eye Surgery for Long Sightedness

04 Jan 2013
Read more

How Presbia Works to Solve your Near Vision Problem

28 Jun 2013
Read more

Book a Free Consultation Today!

At your consultation we will answer all your questions, discuss finance options, and assess whether you are a suitable candidate for one of our life-changing, treatments. Consultations with our expert Optometrists are free and take approximately 1 hour at one of our nationwide clinics.
World’s Leading Technology
Laser Eye Surgery Lifetime Care Guarantee
Laser Health Insurance Discount
World-Renowned Surgeons
20% Tax Relief
0% Interest Free Finance
99% Of Our Patients Recommend Us
No Waiting List Guaranteed

Patient Reviews

Margaret Mc Clafferty
google
Margaret Mc Clafferty
August 29, 2026

I had LASIK done in Dublin after a consultation and follow up in Derry. From the very start, Elizabeth in Derry put me at ease with her approach. Such a warm, helpful way about her. Surgeon Mikhall Hernandez took the time to meet me in advance to explain the process. All the staff- Iwona, Julie, Jess, Robbie (from Donegal!) and Rachael, I really appreciated the way they supported me from start to finish

Aline Bortolotti Secco
google
Aline Bortolotti Secco
July 31, 2026

I had a great LASIK experience at Optilase Carrickmines and couldn’t be happier with the results. Dr. Tom Materman is incredibly kind, attentive, and made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him, as well as the whole Optilase team! I didn’t feel anything during the procedure, which was much easier than I expected. My recovery has also been going really well—I’m only on day two, and everything has been smooth so far. Thank you to everyone at Optilase for the excellent care!

Carl Thorne
google
Carl Thorne
July 28, 2026

Life changing. From the initial consultation to the aftercare, Optilase have been friendly, professional and caring every step of the way. No worry or concern was too small for a detailed discussion and helpful response. 3 months after my phakic lens surgery my vision is as good as it ever was with glasses without the hassle. Would recommend the Optilase Carrickmines team to anyone.

Colm Smith
google
Colm Smith
July 28, 2026

Very happy with the operation, results and the aftercare

Gerard Mcphillips
google
Gerard Mcphillips
July 24, 2026

Very professional and appointments on time

D
google
D
July 24, 2026

Great team, great experience. Anyone thinking about doing it, do it. Always on the end of the phone if there was any issues. Highly recommend!

jason farrell
google
jason farrell
July 23, 2026

The entire process was smooth professional and completely stress free, I couldn't be happier with my outcome

Tara Dowds
google
Tara Dowds
July 22, 2026

Excellent experience in the Cork clinic. Dan O'brien explained everything so throughly. I really appreciated the consultation.

Michael Britton
google
Michael Britton
July 22, 2026

Absolutely brilliant service from consultation through to surgery and aftercare. The whole team are really friendly and efficient. Would recommend to anyone thinking about getting corrective surgery.

Majella Murphy
google
Majella Murphy
July 22, 2026

Excellent service and care. Laser eye surgery went well and have had no issues. Highly recommend Sinead and the team in Optilase Cork

Saidhbhe OShea
google
Saidhbhe OShea
July 21, 2026

Highly recommended the team in the cork clinic. Very professional and friendly throughout the whole process.

wiktoria szmerdt
google
wiktoria szmerdt
July 21, 2026

Lovely staff, very knowledgeable, made me feel calm and comfortable during my consultation

Lets Connect

©2026 Lominol Limited. All rights reserved
|
Privacy Centre
|
Policy & Procedures
|
Terms & Conditions
Flexible Payment with
humm
Book a Free Consultation
crossmenuchevron-left