Astigmatism

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a very common eye condition that causes blurred vision either close up or at a distance. This is because the cornea, the clear-fronted cover of the eye, is irregularly shaped. We often explain this more easily by just saying the eye isn't round, it's rugby ball shaped.

Whether you are long-sighted (hyperopic) or short-sighted (myopic), you can still have some degree of astigmatism.

Symptoms

Slight astigmatism doesn't usually affect vision or require correcting, however, larger amounts of astigmatism cause distorted or blurred vision, discomfort and headache. Astigmatism causes your eyes to work harder, which can make them tired.

The symptoms can range; some people get headaches, others just plain old blurred vision. Astigmatism doesn't just affect your near or far vision, it can affect both. Astigmatism can also result in tired eyes, especially if you are concentrating on anything for a long period of time. This may be doing things that require looking up close (like working at a computer or studying) or at a distance (such as driving).

Treatment

Glasses or contact lenses can be used to correct astigmatism. In some cases orthokeratology may be an optional treatment. Your Visique optometrist can easily measure for astigmatism in a routine eye test, and will talk you through how to correct it.

Vision will be clearer and more comfortable if astigmatism is corrected - even if a person sees quite well. Your Visique optometrist can help with any eye problems or concerns, including astigmatism.

Video: Astigmatism