Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common imperfection in the curvature of the eye's cornea or lens. While it may sound frightening, it is a refractive error of the eye and not a disease or threatening health issue. Because of the way it changes the eyes ability to focus light, it frequently results in blurry or distorted vision. Someone with astigmatism in one or both eyes require corrective glasses or contacts. In cases where astigmatism is present, the cornea has developed an irregular ovular or "football" shaped curve that creates distortions in the way the eye perceives light.
Not all astigmatism center around the shape of the cornea, lenticular astigmatism is when the lens behind the cornea develops improperly, blurring vision overtime. Astigmatism severity is measured in diopters. A perfect eye with no astigmatism has 0 diopters, in an ideal world. The truth is that many people with astigmatism under 0.75 diopters do not need corrective eyewear. People with a measurement of 1.5 or more typically need contacts or eyeglasses to attain clear vision. Your eye doctor can tell you if you need astigmatism correcting glasses or contacts through a routine eye exam.
Astigmatism Causes
Astigmatism have a strong genetic factor, and thus may be present at birth or develop in adults after an eye injury, eye disease or eye surgery. Astigmatism are particularly common in people who already have eye conditions that alter the way the eye refracts light. Conditions like myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). Astigmatism is an extremely common condition, with roughly 30% of all people reporting experiences with astigmatism. Symptoms vary from person to person, but here are some common signs.
Symptoms:
- Eye strain
- Difficulty seeing in low light or at night
- Squinting
- Eye Irritation
- Headaches
- Distorted vision
- Blurred vision from certain distances
Astigmatism can easily be corrected with glasses and contacts. In some cases, corrective surgeries may be an option for those wanting a permanent solution. Corrective laser surgery to reshape the tissue of the cornea carries the normal risks as any surgery, so consult with an eye specialist to decide if corrective surgery is right for you.
Who is at risk
- People with a family history of astigmatism or other eye disorders
- People who have experienced scarring or thinning of the cornea
- People with Myopia or Nearsightedness
- People with Hyperopia or Farsightedness
- People with a history of eye surgery
It is important to remember that astigmatism can have various causes and come in different forms, so make sure to schedule an appointment to have your eye health routinely checked. Astigmatism may worsen overtime and it is best to get regular checkups in order to maintain a proper corrective prescription.
Symptoms for mild astigmatism vary from the symptoms severe astigmatism create. Symptoms of mild astigmatism include headaches, eye strain, fatigue and blurred vision from certain distances. Distorted and blurry vision accompany severe astigmatism. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your eye doctor immediately for a comprehensive eye exam.