Astigmatism Explained: What You Need to Know

Astigmatism is a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. 

It occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing light to focus unevenly on the retina and resulting in blurred or distorted vision. 

While astigmatism can be caused by various factors such as genetics, eye injuries, or certain medical conditions, it can be managed and treated effectively with the right approach. 

In this article, we will explore the causes, types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for astigmatism and debunk common myths and misconceptions about the condition.

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a very common eye condition affecting millions of people around the world. It is characterised by blurred or distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea. Irregularity of the cornea causes light to be focused unevenly on the retina, which in turn causes blurriness and distortion. 

What causes astigmatism?

There are many different factors that may contribute to whether you have astigmatism. In some cases, astigmatism is a result of corneal diseases, such as keratoconus or a symptom of other eye conditions, such as cataracts or glaucoma. However, most commonly, it is usually caused by factors such as genetics, eye injuries or certain medical conditions.

Types of Astigmatism

There are two main types of astigmatism: corneal astigmatism and lenticular astigmatism. 

Corneal astigmatism occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped and

Lenticular astigmatism occurs when the lens inside the eye is irregularly shaped.

Astigmatism can range from mild to severe, with mild not usually requiring treatment and moderate to severe requiring corrective lenses or surgery.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

• Blurred or distorted vision
• Traffic lights are streaky/distorted
• Eye strain
• Headaches
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Double vision
• Ghosting - where objects appear to have a shadow/duplicate

Important Note

Not everyone with astigmatism will experience symptoms. If you experience vision problems, scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist is important.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Astigmatism

How is astigmatism tested and diagnosed?

Testing for astigmatism is typically diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam, which may include a visual acuity test, a refraction test, and a keratometry test. These tests help your eye doctor determine the degree and type of astigmatism present.

What are my treatment options?

Several treatment options are available for astigmatism, depending on the severity of your condition and your personal preferences.

1. Eyeglasses: Eyeglasses are a common treatment option for astigmatism. They work by correcting the way light enters the eye, resulting in clearer vision. Eyeglasses may be recommended for mild to moderate astigmatism, and may be prescribed for distance or reading vision or for both.
2. Contact Lenses: Contact lenses are another treatment option for astigmatism. They work by conforming to your eye's shape, correcting how light enters the eye and providing clearer vision. Toric contact lenses are specifically designed for astigmatism and can be prescribed for mild to moderate astigmatism.
3. Refractive Surgery: Refractive surgery, such as LASIK or PRK, may be recommended for severe astigmatism. This surgical procedure reshapes the cornea to correct the irregular shape and improve vision.

How to manage living with astigmatism

• Adjust lighting and screen settings to reduce eye strain and discomfort.
• Take regular breaks from screens.
• Use eye drops or artificial tear to lubricate eyes.
• Avoid environmental triggers, such as allergens or irritants.
• Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
• Protect eyes from UV radiation.

Debunking myths about astigmatism

Myth #1: Astigmatism is a Rare Condition
Astigmatism affects millions of people worldwide and is a very common vision disorder!  It is estimated that 1 in 3 people have astigmatism.

Myth #2: Astigmatism Only Affects Vision at Certain Distances
Astigmatism can affect vision at all distances, unlike myopia and hyperopia. This is because astigmatism affects the shape of the cornea or lens. However, some people may find symptoms more pronounced at either close up or at a distance.

Myth #3: Astigmatism is Always Correctable with Glasses or Contacts
Contacts or glasses can be effective in correcting many cases of astigmatism. However, they may not always fully correct the vision problems associated with astigmatism, such as in more severe cases. Severe cases may require specialised lenses or surgery.

Myth #4: Astigmatism is a Serious Eye Condition that Leads to Blindness
Only in very rare cases when severe astigmatism is left untreated is there an increased risk of other vision disorders complications. Astigmatism is not a serious eye condition that leads to blindness.

Myth #5: Astigmatism is Hereditary and Cannot be Prevented
Genetics can be a factor in whether you have astigmatism. However, many environmental factors that can influence astigmatism, such as injuries, diseases and surgeries as well as poor nutrition, lifestyle choices and smoking.

Astigmatism is a prevalent eye condition that affects a significant number of people worldwide. Understanding the causes, types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for astigmatism is crucial to manage and treat the condition effectively. By debunking common myths and misconceptions surrounding astigmatism, we can help spread awareness and promote better eye health for everyone. If you experience any vision problems, it is essential to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist to get a proper diagnosis and receive the appropriate treatment. Remember, living with astigmatism can be manageable with adequate management and treatment.

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