Asitigmatism

The latest in eye care and advice

Causes, Symptoms, and How Your Optometrist Can Help

Astigmatism is a condition where the eye is shaped more like a football than a soccer ball.

Instead of focusing light clearly on a single point, the eye distorts the image so that it appears more like a streak. If you have astigmatism, it will cause some level of blur or glare sensitivity at any distance, depending on its severity.

Why do I Have Astigmatism?

Astigmatism may be a natural variation in the shape of your cornea or lens. It could develop due to eye rubbing or allergy-related irritation. Astigmatism may even be associated with corneal conditions, such as Keratoconus.

Common Symptoms of Astigmatism

You may notice:

General blur or “shadowed”/double outlines at any distance
Headaches or eye strain after reading or screen time
Difficulty with small print or fine detail
Glare and halos around lights, especially at night
Frequent prescription changes or “just not quite right” vision

What Happens If Astigmatism Isn’t Addressed?

You may keep compensating by squinting, leaning closer, or avoiding night driving. Over time, this can lead to headaches, visual fatigue, reduced reading speed, and lower confidence at night.
Accurate optics and fit usually deliver an immediate, noticeable improvement in clarity and comfort.

Astigmatism FAQ’s

Q: What is astigmatism and what causes it?
A:: Astigmatism is a common vision condition where the front surface of the eye (cornea) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape. Instead of being round like a basketball, it’s shaped more like a rugby ball. This uneven curve causes light to focus unevenly on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.

Q: What are the symptoms of astigmatism?
A:: Symptoms can include blurred or distorted vision at all distances, eyestrain, headaches, trouble seeing at night, or needing to squint to see clearly. Some people may not realise they have it until they have a comprehensive eye exam.

Q: Can children have astigmatism?
A:: Yes, astigmatism can be present from a young age. It’s important to detect it early, as uncorrected astigmatism in children can affect learning and development. Regular eye exams are recommended during school years.

Q: How is astigmatism treated?
A:: Astigmatism is usually corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses. In some cases, refractive surgery like LASIK may be an option for adults. The right treatment depends on your age, lifestyle, and prescription.

Q: Will astigmatism get worse over time?
A:: It can change slightly with age, but not always. Regular eye checks will help monitor your vision and ensure your prescription is up to date for the best clarity and comfort.

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