Understanding Astigmatism: A Common Vision Problem

Astigmatism is a type of refractive error that affects the way the eye focuses light. It occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is not perfectly spherical, causing blurred or distorted vision.

What Causes Astigmatism?

The exact cause of astigmatism is unknown, but it’s thought to be related to individual differences in the shape of the cornea. Some people may be born with astigmatism, while others may develop it over time.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

The symptoms of astigmatism can vary from person to person, but common complaints include:

– Blurry vision at all distances
– Distorted vision in certain areas
– Eye strain and headaches
– Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
– Squinting to try to see clearly

Diagnosing Astigmatism

Astigmatism is typically diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. Your eye doctor may use a variety of instruments to measure the curvature of your cornea and lens, including:

– Phoropter: a device that helps determine the correct lens prescription
– Autorefractor: a machine that measures the way light enters the eye
– Keratometer: an instrument that measures the curvature of the cornea
– Corneal topography: a map of the cornea’s surface

Treating Astigmatism

Astigmatism can be corrected with:

– Eyeglasses: prescription glasses with lenses that counteract the distortions of the cornea or lens
– Contact lenses: lenses worn directly on the eye to correct vision
– Refractive surgery: surgical procedures that use light or lasers to correct the shape of the cornea
– Lens extractions and implantable contact lenses: surgical procedures that involve removing the natural lens and replacing it with an artificial one

Understanding Your Prescription

If you’re diagnosed with astigmatism, your prescription will include information about the axis of the lenses needed to correct your vision. The axis is measured in degrees, ranging from 0 to 180.

By understanding astigmatism and its treatment options, you can take the first step towards correcting your vision and improving your quality of life.