What Is Astigmatism? Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Explained
What Is Astigmatism? Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Explained
Astigmatism is one of the most common vision conditions, yet many people don't realise they have it until they have an eye examination.
The good news is that it's very common, easy to diagnose and, in most cases, can be corrected with prescription glasses.
Here's everything you need to know.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error.
Instead of the front surface of the eye (the cornea) being perfectly round like a football, it's shaped more like a rugby ball.
Because of this difference in shape, light doesn't focus at one single point on the retina.
Instead, it focuses at multiple points, causing vision to appear blurred or distorted.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms vary from person to person but commonly include:
• Blurred vision
• Distorted vision
• Headaches
• Eye strain
• Squinting to see clearly
• Difficulty seeing at night
Some people have very mild astigmatism and don't notice any symptoms at all.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Most astigmatism is present from birth.
It isn't caused by reading, using computers or watching television.
Many people simply inherit the shape of their cornea.
Astigmatism can also develop or change gradually over time.
How Is Astigmatism Diagnosed?
During a routine eye examination, your optometrist measures how light focuses inside your eyes.
If astigmatism is present, your prescription will usually include:
• CYL (Cylinder)
• AXIS
These measurements allow lenses to correct the blur caused by astigmatism.
Can Glasses Correct Astigmatism?
Yes.
Prescription glasses are one of the most common ways of correcting astigmatism.
Specially designed lenses redirect light so it focuses correctly on the retina, providing clearer vision.
Some people notice an immediate improvement, while others need a few days to adjust to their new prescription.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse?
It can change gradually over time, which is why regular eye examinations are important.
Your prescription may need updating if your vision changes.
Does Everyone With Astigmatism Need Glasses?
Not always.
Very mild astigmatism may not cause noticeable symptoms.
If your vision is clear and you're comfortable, your optometrist may decide that correction isn't necessary.
However, stronger levels of astigmatism often benefit from prescription lenses.
Can You Drive With Astigmatism?
Many people with astigmatism drive perfectly safely.
The important thing is that your vision meets the legal driving standard.
If your astigmatism affects your visual clarity, prescription glasses may help you see road signs, markings and other vehicles more clearly.
Living With Astigmatism
For most people, astigmatism is simply another type of prescription.
Once it's corrected with the appropriate lenses, everyday activities such as reading, driving and using a computer usually become much more comfortable.
If you've recently been told you have astigmatism, there's no need to worry. It's one of the most common conditions optometrists see every day, and modern prescription lenses can provide excellent vision for the vast majority of people.