Astigmatism is a common and generally treatable condition that causes blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the cornea (the clear front layer of the eye) or the lens inside the eye is irregularly shaped, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina, which is essential for clear vision. Astigmatism often occurs alongside other refractive errors like near-sightedness (myopia) or far-sightedness (hyperopia).
Astigmatism is usually caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, which leads to uneven focusing of light on the retina. This irregularity can be likened to a football shape (oval) instead of a basketball shape (spherical). In some cases, astigmatism may be hereditary, meaning it runs in families, or it can develop as a result of:
- Injury or surgery: Trauma to the eye or certain surgeries can change the cornea’s shape.
- Keratoconus: A progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and becomes cone-shaped.
- Natural development: Mild astigmatism can occur simply as part of natural variations in eye anatomy.
It’s important to note that astigmatism is not caused by poor eye care or sitting too close to screens.
Astigmatism cannot be entirely prevented as its root causes are largely structural or genetic. However, taking care of your overall eye health can help prevent additional complications or worsening symptoms. Key steps include:
- Regular eye examinations to catch changes early.
- Protecting your eyes from injury with appropriate safety eyewear.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support overall ocular health.
People with astigmatism may experience a range of symptoms depending on its severity. These can include:
- Blurred or distorted vision: Objects may appear stretched or unclear at all distances, leading to difficulty reading, driving, or recognizing faces.
- Eye strain or discomfort: Prolonged tasks like using a computer or reading may cause discomfort or fatigue.
- Frequent headaches: Straining to focus on blurred images can lead to recurrent headaches.
- Difficulty seeing at night: Poor vision in dim lighting or while driving at night is a common challenge.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to book an eye examination promptly.
Treatment for astigmatism is highly effective and tailored to the individual. The most common options include:
- Corrective lenses: Glasses (Prescription lenses in glasses can correct the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, improving focus and clarity) or toric contact lenses (contact lenses that are specifically designed to address astigmatism).
- Refractive surgery: Procedures like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea, permanently correcting astigmatism in eligible candidates.
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): These are specially designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day.
Your optometrist and/or ophthalmologist will recommend the most suitable option based on your lifestyle, preferences, and the severity of your astigmatism.
When should I see an optical professional?
Astigmatism can develop at any age and may change over time. It’s a good idea to book an eye exam if you experience persistent symptoms like blurred vision, headaches, or eye strain. Even if you’re symptom-free, routine eye exams (every one to two years) are crucial for early detection of any vision changes or related conditions.
