What is Astigmatism and How Can it be Corrected?

Astigmatism is a common refractive error that affects the way light enters your eye, causing blurred or distorted vision. Unlike nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia), which are caused by the overall shape of the eye, astigmatism is a result of an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. This irregular curvature prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to visual distortions.
 

The cornea, the clear front portion of your eye, and the lens, located behind the pupil, are primarily responsible for refracting light onto the retina. In a perfectly shaped eye, the cornea and lens have a smooth, evenly curved surface, allowing light to focus precisely on the retina. However, in astigmatism, the cornea or lens has an irregular, cylindrical shape, causing light to focus on multiple points instead of a single point on the retina.
 

What Causes Astigmatism?

Astigmatism can be caused by various factors, including:
 

• Genetics: Astigmatism often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component.
• Eye injuries or diseases: Trauma to the eye or certain eye conditions, such as keratoconus (a progressive thinning of the cornea), can cause astigmatism.
• Eye surgery: Certain eye surgeries, such as cataract removal or LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis), can sometimes lead to astigmatism.
• Congenital factors: Some babies are born with astigmatism due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens present from birth.

Common Symptoms of Astigmatism

The symptoms of astigmatism can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common signs and symptoms include:
 

• Blurred or distorted vision at all distances
• Squinting to see clearly
• Eye strain or fatigue, especially when reading or working on a computer
• Headaches or eye discomfort
• Difficulty with night vision or glare from lights

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to schedule an eye examination with an optometrist to determine if astigmatism is the cause.
 

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams for Early Detection

Regular eye examinations are crucial for detecting astigmatism and other vision problems early on. Early detection and treatment can help prevent potential complications and ensure optimal visual clarity. During an eye exam, your eye doctor will perform various tests to assess the shape and curvature of your cornea and lens, as well as the overall health of your eyes. These tests may include:
 

• Visual acuity tests: These tests measure your ability to see clearly at different distances.
• Refraction tests: These tests determine the precise refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism) and the appropriate lens prescription.
• Keratometry: This test measures the curvature of your cornea, which can help diagnose astigmatism.
• Slit-lamp examination: This examination allows your eye care professional to closely examine the structures of your eye, including the cornea and lens.

Correcting Astigmatism with Specialty Contact Lenses

One of the most common and effective treatments for astigmatism is the use of specialty contact lenses. These lenses are designed to compensate for the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, allowing light to focus properly on the retina.
 

There are three main types of specialty contact lenses used for astigmatism:

• Toric contact lenses: These lenses have different curvatures or powers in different meridians (directions) to correct astigmatism. They are available in both soft and rigid gas-permeable (RGP) materials.
• Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses: These lenses are made of a firm, highly permeable material that maintains its shape on the eye, effectively masking the irregular corneal curvature caused by astigmatism.
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This non-surgical treatment involves wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, temporarily correcting astigmatism and other refractive errors.

Specialty contact lenses can provide clear and comfortable vision for individuals with astigmatism. However, it's essential to follow your eye doctor's instructions for proper lens care and replacement schedule to ensure optimal vision and eye health.
 

In addition to specialty contact lenses, procedures like LASIK can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism and other refractive errors. This surgery generally reserved for adults with stable vision and minimal other eye conditions.
 

Your optometrist will evaluate your individual needs and recommend the most suitable treatment option based on the severity of your astigmatism, your age, and your overall eye health.
 

Managing Astigmatism for Better Vision

Astigmatism is a common refractive error that can cause blurred or distorted vision. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it is a highly manageable condition. Regular eye examinations are crucial for detecting astigmatism and other vision problems early on. Early detection and treatment can help prevent potential complications and ensure optimal visual clarity.
 

If you're experiencing vision problems or have concerns about astigmatism, schedule a consultation with Nuwave Vision. Dr. Lin can perform a thorough evaluation, diagnose astigmatism, and recommend the most suitable treatment options to help you achieve optimal visual clarity and overall eye health. Visit our office in Westlake, Ohio, or call (440) 881-0002 to book an appointment today.