Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens in the eye. Instead of being evenly curved, the cornea or lens has an uneven curvature, which causes light to be focused at multiple points on the retina. This results in blurred or distorted vision at all distances.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

Common symptoms of astigmatism include:

• Blurred or Distorted Vision: Difficulty seeing clearly at both near and far distances.
• Eye Strain: Discomfort or fatigue in the eyes, especially after extended periods of visual tasks.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches caused by the strain from trying to see clearly.
• Difficulty with Night Vision: Problems with seeing well in low-light conditions, such as driving at night.

Causes and Risk Factors

Astigmatism can be caused by several factors:

• Genetics: A family history of astigmatism increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Eye Injury or Surgery: Trauma or surgical procedures that affect the cornea or lens can lead to astigmatism.
• Eye Conditions: Certain conditions, such as keratoconus, can cause irregularities in the cornea leading to astigmatism.

Diagnosis of Astigmatism

To diagnose astigmatism, a comprehensive eye examination is necessary. During the exam, our eye care professionals will:

• Perform a Visual Acuity Test: Evaluate how well you can see at various distances using an eye chart.
• Conduct a Refraction Test: Use a phoropter or automated refractor to determine the specific prescription needed to correct astigmatism.
• Measure Corneal Curvature: Assess the shape and curvature of your cornea using a keratometer or corneal topographer.

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

• Eyeglasses:

  • Eyeglasses are the most common treatment for astigmatism. They use cylindrical lenses to compensate for the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens, providing clearer vision.

• Contact Lenses:

  • Toric Lenses: These specialized contact lenses are designed to correct astigmatism by matching the shape of your cornea. They provide a stable and comfortable fit for improved vision.
  • Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: RGP lenses can also correct astigmatism by providing a more uniform surface for light to focus on the retina.

• Refractive Surgery:

  • LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): A popular surgical option that uses a laser to reshape the cornea and correct astigmatism, improving overall vision clarity.
  • PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): Similar to LASIK, PRK involves reshaping the cornea with a laser but does not require creating a corneal flap. It is suitable for certain corneal conditions.

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K):

  • Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed gas permeable contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea. This non-surgical approach can provide clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts.

Managing Astigmatism

• Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye examinations are essential to monitor your astigmatism and update your prescription as needed.
• Healthy Visual Habits: Incorporate practices such as taking breaks during extended visual tasks, using proper lighting, and managing screen time to reduce eye strain.
• Education and Awareness: Stay informed about astigmatism and its management options to make informed decisions about your eye care.