Astigmatism
Correct a Football-Shaped Cornea
Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregularly-shaped cornea. It is a common condition, especially for nearsighted or farsighted individuals. Astigmatism itself causes blurred vision at any distance.
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Astigmatism FAQ
Q: What role does refraction play in vision?
A: Refraction is the bending of light as it passes through one medium to another. Light rays refract through our eyes as they pass through the cornea and the lens, focusing on the retina. The retina converts light into messages. The optic nerve sends these messages to the brain for interpretation.
Q: What is astigmatism?
A: Normally, the curve of the cornea is perfect like a soccer ball. Astigmatism is when the cornea’s curve resembles a football instead, varying in steepness/roundness. The varying cornea shape causes light to focus unevenly onto the retina, thus leading to blurred vision at any distance.
Q: What are astigmatism signs and symptoms?
A: Symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Eyestrain
- Squinting
- Distorted or blurred vision at all distances
- Difficulty driving at night
- Doubling or shadowing of vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your eye care professional. If you wear glasses or contact lenses and still have these issues, you may need a new prescription.
Q: Who gets astigmatism?
A: Astigmatism is common, as almost everyone has it to some degree.
Q: How is astigmatism detected?
A: Refraction methods measure and detect astigmatism, either using machine automation or completed manually. Manual refraction is the “1 or 2” test that your eye doctor performs they checking you for glasses.
Q: What astigmatism treatment is available?
A: Glasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery treat astigmatism. Also, LASIK surgery and Refractive Lens Exchange both have the ability to correct astigmatism, if needed.