Astigmatism is a common vision condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet it remains a mystery to many. In this blog post, we’ll break down the basics of astigmatism, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options, so you can better understand this aspect of your eye health.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error, which means it’s a problem with how your eye focuses light. Unlike nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia), where the main issue is the curvature of the cornea or length of the eyeball, astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape. Instead of having a single, uniform curvature like a basketball, the cornea of an astigmatic eye may resemble the shape of a football or rugby ball. The exact cause of astigmatism is not always clear, but genetics often play a significant role, just like how one inherits hair colour or height from their parents. Additionally, factors such as eye injuries, surgeries, or certain eye diseases can contribute to the development of astigmatism.
Recognising the Symptoms & Diagnosis
Astigmatism can manifest with a variety of symptoms, including:
1. Blurred or distorted vision at various distances.
2. Eye strain, discomfort, or headaches, especially after prolonged periods of visual tasks.
3. Squinting to see clearly.
4. Difficulty with night vision or seeing clearly in low-light conditions.
An optometrist or ophthalmologist can diagnose astigmatism through a comprehensive eye exam.
Treating Astigmatism
The good news is that astigmatism is highly treatable, and a variety of options are available to correct your vision:
1. Prescription glasses: These can effectively correct astigmatism. The lenses are specially designed to compensate for the irregular corneal shape, providing clear and crisp vision.
2. Contact Lenses: Toric contact lenses are a popular choice for astigmatism. These lenses are designed to have different powers in different meridians of the lens, allowing them to align properly with the shape of your eye.
3. Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
4. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. This can provide clear vision during the day without the need for corrective lenses.
Caring for Your Astigmatic Eyes
Whether you’ve been living with astigmatism for years or have recently been diagnosed, taking care of your eye health is essential. Regular eye exams, proper lighting during tasks, and giving your eyes breaks during extended screen time can all contribute to maintaining comfortable and clear vision. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options empowers you to make informed decisions about your eye health. Remember, if you’re experiencing any changes in your vision or discomfort, it’s always a good idea to consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist who can guide you toward the best solutions for your unique needs.
Your eyesight is precious – let’s keep it clear and vibrant!
