Astigmatism Overview

Blurry vision can sometimes be caused by astigmatism, a refractive error where the cornea and lens of the eye have an irregular shape. In a normal eye, the cornea is round and smooth. In an eye with astigmatism, the cornea has an asymmetric shape.�This condition is quite common and can be corrected with a variety of methods.�

Do I have astigmatism?

Blurry vision, both near and far, is a sign that you may have astigmatism. Those affected by astigmatism also complain of headaches, fatigue, and eye irritation. However, these symptoms can also signify another refractive error, so it's important to be examined by an ophthalmologist to determine if you have astigmatism.

Diagnosing Astigmatism

Your ophthalmologist can diagnose astigmatism during an eye examination. A visual acuity test and measuring your eye's refraction is often enough to make a conclusive diagnosis. A special instrument called a keratometer can also be used to determine the eye's curvature, which can reflect the presence of astigmatism and its severity.

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

There are various treatment options for patients with astigmatism. The preferred method to correct astigmatism remains eyeglasses or contact lenses. Refractive surgery is also gaining in popularity. LASIK surgery can reshape the irregular cornea to improve vision. This procedure takes roughly 15 minutes to complete and is the most performed refractive surgery available today. If your corneas are very thin or flat, PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) or LASEK may be recommended. Implantable contact lenses are another option used to treat astigmatism. In this procedure, your lens is replaced with an artificial lens to help you see clearly.

If you have astigmatism or the symptoms of astigmatism and would like to know more about your treatment options, contact an ophthalmology clinic to schedule an appointment.