Are you experiencing blurred or distorted vision? It could be a sign of astigmatism, a common eye condition that affects people of all ages. In this blog post, we’ll share the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for astigmatism.
Causes of astigmatism
Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or eye lens. Instead of being round, the cornea or lens has a more oblong or football-like shape, causing light to be refracted unevenly. This can result in blurred or distorted vision.
Astigmatism can be present at birth or develop later in life. Some people may also develop astigmatism after an eye injury or surgery.
Symptoms of astigmatism
The most common symptom of astigmatism is blurred or distorted vision, which can occur at any distance. Other symptoms may include:
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Difficulty seeing at night
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to visit an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam.
Diagnosing astigmatism
Astigmatism can be diagnosed during a routine eye exam. During the exam, your doctor will perform a variety of tests to evaluate the shape of your cornea and lens and determine the severity of your astigmatism. These tests are painless and usually only take a few minutes to complete. By assessing the unique characteristics of your eyes, your doctor can create a personalized treatment plan that’s tailored to your needs.
Treatment options for astigmatism
Treatment for astigmatism will depend on the severity of your astigmatism. Eyeglasses and contact lenses are the most common treatments for astigmatism. These corrective lenses work by adjusting the way light enters the eye, improving vision. Refractive surgery, such as LASIK, is another option that can help correct astigmatism. During this procedure, a laser is used to reshape the cornea, correcting the irregular shape that causes astigmatism.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of astigmatism, contact us today to schedule an eye exam with our eye doctors in Milford. They can help diagnose the condition and recommend the best treatment option.
