Astigmatism is a common refractive error that causes blurred vision. For example, if you’re looking at your watch, the hour hand may appear clear, while the minute hand appears blurry. Your focusing ability may also change depending on how far away your watch is from your eyes. An eye doctor can help you determine whether you have astigmatism or not.
How Common Is Astigmatism?
Most people have some level of astigmatism. Depending on the severity of the case, you may or may not need corrective eyewear. Most nearsighted and most farsighted people have some level of astigmatism.
Is Astigmatism Caused by Disease?
Astigmatism is not typically caused by a disease. It is simply a common eye condition that affects most people at some point in their lives.
How Does One Get Astigmatism?
Astigmatism may result from pressure caused by the eyelids on the cornea. You may also develop astigmatism if your cornea is subjected to trauma. A scar on the cornea may lead to it, as well.
Normal, healthy eyes have round corneas. If you have astigmatism, your corneas may be a bit elongated, not unlike a rugby ball. As the shape of the cornea impedes light travel, some of the things you see may be blurry.
Are There Obvious Symptoms?
Many people with astigmatism may not experience symptoms. If the astigmatism is advanced, however, you may notice some blurring in your vision, such as in the watch example above. In some cases, astigmatism may cause eye strain, nausea and headaches. Have your eyes checked if you notice these symptoms.
What Is the Treatment?
Wearing prescription eyeglasses is the most common solution for astigmatism. Your doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the type of glasses you need. Orthokeratology is another option; it involves the use of special contact lenses that reshape the cornea.
Astigmatism can worsen over time, negatively impacting your lifestyle. Ignoring it will not make it go away. It’s advisable to see a professional.
Visit Opti Care to have your eyes examined for astigmatism or any other vision concerns. We also offer dry eye treatments. Call us today at (410) 795-8670. You may also fill out our form. We are ready to help you in Westminster, MD.