Understanding Astigmatism: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Astigmatism is a common refractive issue that influences the way your eye directs light. It happens when the shape of the cornea or lens is uneven, preventing light from focusing correctly on the retina. This may result in unclear or warped vision, regardless of distance. In this article, we will observe the factors, signs and treatment options for astigmatism, along with tips on how to manage it effectively.

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a state in which the cornea or lens has an uneven shape. Instead of being ideally round like a basketball, it is shaped more like a football. This irregular shape causes light rays entering the eye to focus unevenly, leading to blurred or distorted vision.

Types of Astigmatism

There are two primary types of astigmatism:

• Corneal astigmatism: This occurs when the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, has a consistent curvature.
• Lenticular astigmatism: This happens when the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape.

In both cases, the irregular curvature causes light to refract incorrectly, leading to blurry vision at various distances.

Causes of Astigmatism

Astigmatism may be congenital, or it can evolve. While the exact cause is not always clear, several factors may contribute to the development of astigmatism:

Genetics

Astigmatism often runs in families, which means if your parents have it, you may also develop the condition. Genetic factors influence the shape and curvature of the cornea and lens, making hereditary astigmatism quite common.

Eye Injury or Surgery

In some cases, astigmatism may develop after an eye injury, such as a cut or trauma to the cornea. Additionally, certain eye surgeries, including cataract surgery, can cause astigmatism if the cornea is altered during the procedure.

Other Eye Conditions

Conditions like keratoconus, a progressive thinning and cone-shaped deformation of the cornea, can lead to severe astigmatism. Addressing underlying eye conditions is essential to prevent astigmatism from worsening.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

Astigmatism can cause various symptoms, which may differ in severity depending on the degree of curvature irregularity. Common symptoms include:

Blurred or Distorted Vision

The most noticeable symptom of astigmatism is blurred or distorted vision. This occurs at both near and far distances, making it challenging to focus on objects clearly.

Eye Strain and Fatigue

People with astigmatism often experience eye strain and fatigue, especially after reading, working on a computer, or focusing on tasks for long periods. The constant effort to compensate for blurred vision can tire the eyes.

Headaches

Astigmatism can also lead to frequent headaches, particularly after activities that require sustained focus, such as reading or driving.

Difficulty Seeing at Night

Individuals with astigmatism might struggle to see clearly in dim lighting, which can make night driving particularly challenging.

Diagnosing Astigmatism

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s necessary to schedule an eye exam. An eye doctor near me can perform several tests to diagnose astigmatism and determine its severity. These tests may include:

Visual Acuity Test

This test assesses your ability to read letters on an eye chart from different distances. It helps the optometrist in Markham, Ontario, evaluate the clarity of your vision.

Keratometry

This test assesses the curvature of your cornea by directing a circle of light onto it and measuring the way it reflects. It is a crucial test for diagnosing corneal astigmatism.

Refraction Test

A refraction test helps determine the exact prescription needed to correct your vision. The optical store in Markham may use this test to evaluate the severity of astigmatism and recommend appropriate corrective lenses.

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

There are several ways to correct astigmatism, depending on the severity of the condition and your lifestyle needs. Standard treatment options include:

Eyeglasses

The simplest and most common treatment for astigmatism is prescription eyeglasses. Lenses are designed to rectify the consistent curvature of the cornea or lens, permitting light to focus correctly on the retina.

Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are another option for those who choose not to wear eyeglasses. Special toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism by focusing light more effectively. Consult an optometrist in Markham, Ontario, to find out if contact lenses are a suitable option for you.

LASIK Surgery

For individuals seeking a more permanent solution, LASIK surgery can modify the cornea to treat astigmatism. This is a popular option for those who want to decrease or eradicate their dependence on glasses or contacts.

Managing Astigmatism

Living with astigmatism doesn’t have to be complicated. By implementing these suggestions, you can effectively manage your vision and promote overall eye health.

Regular Eye Exams

It’s essential to schedule regular eye exams at an optical store in Markham to monitor adjustments in your vision and revise your prescription if needed. Routine check-ups ensure that any worsening of astigmatism is detected early and addressed promptly.

Proper Eyewear

Wearing the correct prescription eyewear is crucial for managing astigmatism. If your prescription changes or if you find that your glasses or contacts are no longer providing clear vision, be sure to visit your eye doctor near me for a new prescription.

Follow-Up Care After LASIK

If you choose to undergo LASIK surgery, follow-up care is essential to confirm that your eyes heal properly. Your optometrist in Markham, Ontario, will assist you throughout your recovery journey and track your progress.

Conclusion

Astigmatism is a common condition that can harm your quality of life if left untreated. Whether you choose glasses, contact lenses, or surgery, there are effective ways to correct astigmatism and restore clear vision. Regular visits to an eye doctor near me are necessary to manage this condition and ensure long-term eye health.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of astigmatism, don’t wait—schedule an eye exam at an optical store in Markham today. Timely detection and appropriate treatment are essential for securing your vision and enhancing your quality of life.