Astigmatism: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common refractive error that affects how the eye focuses light. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the astigmatism, but they typically include:

1. Blurred or distorted vision, both up close and at a distance
2. Eyestrain or discomfort
3. Headaches
4. Difficulty seeing at night
5. Squinting
6. Eye fatigue

These symptoms can occur in varying degrees and may change over time. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye exam to determine if you have astigmatism or another vision issue.

What are the causes of astigmatism?

Astigmatism is usually caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Instead of having a smooth, round curvature like a basketball, the cornea or lens of an eye with astigmatism is shaped more like a football, with two different curves. This irregular shape causes light to focus unevenly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision.

Astigmatism can be present at birth and is often hereditary, meaning it can run in families. It can also develop after an eye injury, surgery, or disease that causes scarring or thinning of the cornea. In some cases, certain eye surgeries or conditions, such as keratoconus, can also lead to astigmatism.

What is the treatment for astigmatism?

Astigmatism can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery, depending on the severity and nature of the astigmatism. The goal of treatment is to help the eyes focus light properly onto the retina to improve vision. Here are the common treatment options:

1. Eyeglasses: Prescription eyeglasses with lenses that correct the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens can help to correct astigmatism.
2. Contact lenses: Toric contact lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism. They are available in both soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) varieties.
3. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This is a non-surgical treatment that involves wearing rigid contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. It can correct mild to moderate astigmatism.
4. Refractive surgery: Procedures like LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) can reshape the cornea permanently to correct astigmatism. These surgeries are typically recommended for moderate to severe astigmatism.
5. Lifestyle adjustments: Sometimes, simple adjustments like proper lighting, adjusting computer screen height, or reducing eye strain can help manage symptoms of astigmatism.

It’s important to have regular eye exams to monitor astigmatism and ensure that your prescription is up to date. Your eye care professional can recommend the best treatment option for your specific needs. I had astigmatism and twenty years ago had LASIK eye surgery and now have 20/20 vision in both eyes, no complications.