Astigmatism

Astigmatism

1. What is Astigmatism?
2. Symptoms of Astigmatism
3. How is Astigmatism Diagnosed?
4. Treatment for Astigmatism

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a refractive error that occurs due to irregular curves in the cornea or lens of the eye. Normally, the cornea and lens bend incoming light rays evenly to create a clear focal point on the retina. However, in individuals with astigmatism, the curvature of the cornea or lens is irregular, leading to light rays having different focal points. Astigmatism results in objects being seen as blurry at both near and far distances. This condition is corrected when there is more refraction (diopters) along one axis of the eye. Astigmatism can manifest in irregular curvatures around a horizontal, vertical, or oblique axis.

Astigmatism is often present from birth and can be hereditary. Additionally, factors such as eye injuries, eye surgeries, or corneal diseases can also cause astigmatism. Astigmatism can coexist with other refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). Symptoms of astigmatism can include blurry or double vision, eye fatigue, headaches, eye strain, or difficulty focusing. The diagnosis of astigmatism is made through an eye examination and refractive tests. An eye doctor can determine the degree and axis of astigmatism and recommend suitable treatment options.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

• Blurry Vision: Individuals with astigmatism may have difficulty seeing objects clearly, both at near and far distances. Blurry vision is a result of astigmatism, and it can be more pronounced, especially with high-contrast objects or tasks requiring detailed vision.

• Double Vision: Astigmatism, due to irregular focusing of the eyes, can lead to double vision. When objects cannot be seen clearly, you may perceive them as double or blurry.

• Eye Fatigue: People with astigmatism may tire more quickly when trying to focus their eyes continually. Engaging in activities that require prolonged focusing (such as computer use or reading) can lead to eye fatigue.

• Headaches: Astigmatism can cause headaches when you constantly exert effort to see clearly due to blurred vision. Headaches are particularly common during activities that require prolonged focus.

• Eye Strain or Discomfort: Astigmatism can manifest as a sensation of eye strain or discomfort. The constant effort to focus can strain the eye muscles, leading to a feeling of tension.

• Night Vision Problems: Individuals with astigmatism often experience difficulties with night vision or in low-light conditions. Distinguishing and seeing objects in low-light environments can be challenging.

Symptoms of astigmatism can vary from person to person and may differ based on the degree of astigmatism. If you experience one or several of the symptoms mentioned above, it's important to consult an eye doctor for an eye examination. An eye doctor can diagnose astigmatism and recommend appropriate treatment options.

How is Astigmatism Diagnosed?

Diagnosing astigmatism involves visiting an eye doctor. The eye doctor will perform various tests and examinations to determine astigmatism and assess its degree. Common methods used in the evaluation of astigmatism include:

• Eye Examination: The eye doctor will closely examine your eyes to assess astigmatism symptoms. They will check the curvature of the cornea and lens and look for other potential eye issues.

• Refractive Test: This test helps determine which lens prescriptions would provide the best vision correction. Refractive error measurements are used to identify conditions like astigmatism, myopia, or hyperopia. During a refractive test, you'll determine which focal points your eyes can see clearly with the use of different lenses.

• Keratometry: Keratometry is a test that measures the curvature of the cornea. This test is used to determine the curvature of the cornea and the limits of astigmatism. The eye doctor measures the front surface of the cornea with a keratometer device and evaluates its curvature.

• Astigmatism Tests: Special measurements can be taken to determine the dimensions and degree of astigmatism. These measurements help eye care professionals identify the axes and orientation of astigmatism.

• Pupil Dilation: To get a better view of the lens inside the eye, the eye doctor may use special eye drops to dilate the pupils. This allows for a more precise evaluation of astigmatism.

Treatment for Astigmatism

• Eyeglasses: Eyeglasses are the most common method used to correct astigmatism. Eyeglass lenses provide astigmatic correction by compensating for irregular refraction. After assessing the degree of astigmatism and other eye characteristics, an eye doctor will prescribe suitable eyeglasses.

• Contact Lenses: Toric contact lenses are specially designed for astigmatism correction. These lenses conform to the curvature of the cornea and provide regular refraction. Based on eye measurements, an eye doctor can prescribe the appropriate contact lenses. Contact lenses may be used in conjunction with glasses or as a standalone option.

• Refractive Surgery: Refractive surgical procedures can be performed to correct astigmatism. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) are the most commonly used refractive surgical procedures. In these procedures, laser energy is used to reshape the cornea and correct irregular refraction. These methods are often preferred in cases of more significant astigmatism or when individuals prefer not to use glasses or contact lenses. However, determining your suitability for refractive surgery requires a thorough evaluation by an eye doctor.

The treatment for astigmatism varies depending on individual needs and eye health. An eye doctor will evaluate the degree of astigmatism, your symptoms, lifestyle, and personal preferences before recommending the most suitable treatment option for you.