ASTIGMATISM: THE REASON OF YOUR BLURRED VISION

ASTIGMATISM: THE REASON OF YOUR BLURRED VISION

WHAT IS ASTIGMATISM?

Astigmatism refers to a common and treatable imperfection that occurs in the curvature of the eye. This imperfection can lead to blurred distance and near vision.

Astigmatism can occur when either the frontal surface of the eye, known as the cornea or the lens in the eye consists of mismatched curves. Usually, this curve is like a round ball. However, the issue occurs when this surface curve takes the shape of an egg which can cause blurred vision at all distances.

This is a deformation that may occur since birth and can happen in combination with nearsightedness or farsightedness. If one wishes to seek treatment, it usually involves getting corrective lenses surgery.

Before jumping on and knowing about the treatments, let us take a look at the symptoms of astigmatism.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ASTIGMATISM?

The following are the symptoms of astigmatism:

  • If you have a blurred or distorted vision
  • If you experience eyestrain or discomfort
  • Headaches
  • Having difficulty with night vision
  • Squinting

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR?

Consulting a doctor is extremely important if these symptoms and this medical deformity is interfering with your daily activities and ability to perform daily tasks. An eye doctor will assist you in determining whether you have astigmatism or not. And if you do, then to what degree.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF ASTIGMATISM?

Astigmatism may occur when the cornea of the eye or the lens is egg-shaped and has two mismatched curves. Due to this, the light rays entering our eyes do not bend in the same manner and therefore, there is a formation of two different images. These images may be perceived as blurred by the brain due to the overlapping or combination of the two.

Astigmatism may occur during birth or after an injury to the eyes. Unlike popular belief, astigmatism does not “worsen” due to reading in dim light or sitting too close to the television.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF ASTIGMATISM

Astigmatism can be diagnosed with the help of a full eye exam. The sharpness of your eyesight would be measured, and the doctor would also use tools to measure your vision.

Glasses or contact lenses can be used in order to correct the deformity of astigmatism. You can also resort to surgery if you want a full and fast correction of your eye. During other times, glasses and corrective lenses are enough to treat astigmatism.

Surgery for astigmatism is a Lasik surgery that can help in the correction of the lenses of your eyes as it can reshape the cornea of your eye so that the light rays can focus better. Lasik surgery is done to replace eyeglasses, and therefore, your health insurance company is likely to claim the price of the surgery.