Understanding Astigmatism and How It Can Be Corrected
Understanding Astigmatism and How It Can Be Corrected – Astigmatism is a common vision condition that affects many people. In this article, we will discuss what astigmatism is, its causes, symptoms, and how it can be corrected.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error of the eye that causes blurred vision. In a healthy eye, the cornea and lens are curved evenly in all directions, allowing light to focus on the retina at the back of the eye. However, in an eye with astigmatism, the cornea or lens is curved more in one direction than the other, causing light to focus on two points instead of one. This results in blurry or distorted vision.
Causes of Astigmatism
Astigmatism can be present from birth, or it can develop later in life. Some common causes of astigmatism include:
- Irregularly shaped cornea or lens
- Eye injury
- Eye surgery
- Keratoconus (a condition that causes thinning of the cornea)
Symptoms of Astigmatism
The most common symptom of astigmatism is blurry or distorted vision. Other symptoms may include:
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Squinting
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Difficulty reading or doing close-up work
Diagnosing Astigmatism
An eye doctor can diagnose astigmatism through a comprehensive eye exam that includes:
- Visual acuity test: measures how well you can see at different distances
- Refraction test: measures the amount of refractive error in your eyes
- Keratometry: measures the curvature of the cornea
Treating Astigmatism
Astigmatism can be corrected through various treatments, including:
- Eyeglasses: Prescription eyeglasses can compensate for the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens.
- Contact lenses: Special toric lenses can help to correct the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens.
- Refractive surgery: LASIK, PRK, or other refractive surgeries can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism.
Astigmatism is a common condition that can cause blurry or distorted vision. If you are experiencing symptoms of astigmatism, it is important to visit an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam. Depending on the severity of your astigmatism, your doctor may recommend corrective eyewear or surgery to improve your vision.
