Astigmatism is a vision problem that arises when the shape of your cornea has an error. Astigmatism occurs when the lens of your eye has an irregular curve. As a result, the way light refracts to your retina changes. The irregular curvature of your eye can cause near vision and blurred distance.

The shape of your eyeball is as round as a ball. When light passes into it, it bends in an even way to give you clear sight. But if your cornea has an error with its curve, the light will curve more in one direction. As a result, your eye only focuses on one part of an object. You may see things at a distance as wavy and blurry. 

Astigmatism can occur with farsightedness or nearsightedness. Your doctor can fix your condition using contacts, glasses, or surgery.

What Is the Main Cause of Astigmatism?

The cause of astigmatism is not known, but genetics plays a role. Astigmatism is often present from birth. It can also develop in an individual later in life. An injury to your eye or after surgery can also cause astigmatism.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

You may have astigmatism if you have the following symptoms:

• Headaches
• Blurry vision
• Distorted vision
• Eyestrain
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Eye discomfort
• Squinting

Diagnosis

Astigmatism symptoms are progressive. Whenever you notice changes in your vision, it is ideal to see your eye doctor. Your doctor will conduct an eye exam. You may need to read an eye chart to test how sharp your eyesight is. Your eye doctor will use various tools to measure your vision as follows:

Keratometer

Your doctor uses this machine to measure the bend at the center of the cornea. It can find the flattest and steepest curves. The measurements found show your doctor the shape of your cornea and its ability to focus.

Corneal Topographer

Your doctor can use this technology to get details about the shape of your cornea. You will need to look at one point as the device collects measurements. The computer will use the data to make a color map of your cornea. Your doctor will use it when planning for your surgery. It may also help when fitting contacts.

 Phoropter

You will look through a series of lenses. Doing so will help you find one that you can see through better.

Autorefractor

Your doctor will use this device to shine light into your affected eye. Doing so will help measure changes as light bounces off. After doing so, your doctor will know the type of lenses you will need.

Is Astigmatism Permanent?

Soft contacts or glasses correct high degree or irregular astigmatism. Patients with mild astigmatism may not have symptoms and may not need treatment. Hard lenses may help your eye see better. However, contacts or glasses cannot permanently correct the eye curvature. Also, modern refractive surgery cannot eliminate the condition.

When to See a Doctor 

It is ideal to see your doctor if your symptoms inhibit your ability to conduct your normal activities. Your eye doctor can diagnose whether you have astigmatism and its extent. After your diagnosis, you will know your options to correct vision.

For more on astigmatism, visit Positive Eye Ons Optometry at our office in Los Angeles, California. You can also call (323) 651-5646 to book an appointment today.