Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a common refractive error that causes blurry or distorted vision at all distances. It occurs when the cornea (the eye’s clear front surface) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape. This uneven focus leads to visual distortions, making it difficult to see up close and at a distance.

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is essentially a curvature problem within the eye. When the eye’s cornea or lens is irregular, it bends (or refracts) light unevenly. This results in multiple focal points within the eye rather than one on the retina, which is necessary for sharp vision.

Astigmatism can be classified into two main categories: corneal astigmatism, where the cornea’s shape is the issue, and lenticular astigmatism, where the lens inside the eye is irregularly shaped. The condition can vary in severity, from mild to more significant cases, and it can affect one or both eyes.

Horizontal Astigmatism

Horizontal astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens is more curved along the horizontal axis of the eye than the vertical axis. People with horizontal astigmatism often have difficulty reading or focusing on details that require precise horizontal alignment, such as computer screens or road signs.

Vertical Astigmatism

Vertical astigmatism, on the other hand, occurs when the vertical axis of the cornea or lens has a greater curvature than the horizontal axis. Individuals with vertical astigmatism may notice difficulties with tasks requiring vertical alignment, like reading text on a page.

Astigmatism Symptoms

Symptoms of astigmatism can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but the most common symptom is blurred or distorted vision. Both near and distant objects can appear unclear, leading to symptoms including:

• Squinting
• Eye strain
• Headaches

People with astigmatism may also experience difficulty driving at night due to glare and halos around lights. If left untreated, these symptoms can worsen over time and negatively impact daily activities.

What Causes Astigmatism?

An irregularly shaped cornea or lens typically causes astigmatism. It is usually present from birth, though it may not become noticeable until later in life. Genetics plays a significant role, meaning astigmatism often runs in families.

In some cases, astigmatism may develop after an eye injury or surgery or due to certain eye conditions, like keratoconus, which causes progressive cornea thinning.

Diagnosing Astigmatism

Your eye care professional will measure how your eyes focus light using tests, including visual acuity, where you read letters on a chart. Astigmatism can be detected easily during these tests, and early diagnosis ensures proper corrective measures are taken.

Treatment for Astigmatism

Treatment for astigmatism typically involves using corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, which help adjust how light enters the eye. Toric lenses, specifically designed for astigmatism, can compensate for the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens. For those seeking a long-term solution, refractive surgery, like LASIK or PRK, can reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you’re experiencing blurry vision, eye strain, or headaches, it may be due to astigmatism. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Total Eye Care Centers to get an accurate diagnosis and explore treatment options. Our experienced eye care professionals are ready to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision.

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