Have you ever struggled with blurry or distorted vision? If so, you may have a common vision problem known as astigmatism. Astigmatism affects the way light enters the eye, resulting in blurred vision at both near and far distances. Let’s take a look at the causes and treatments for astigmatism.
Causes of Astigmatism
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape – like a football instead of a basketball. In a healthy eye, the cornea and lens have a smooth, rounded curvature, allowing light to focus properly on the retina in the back of the eye. However, in astigmatism, the cornea or lens may have an oblong or oval shape, causing light to scatter and focus on multiple points instead of a single point on the retina. This results in blurry or distorted vision.
Astigmatism can be present from birth (congenital) or can develop over time (acquired). Some common causes of astigmatism include:
- Corneal issues: Irregularities in the shape of the cornea can be genetic, or caused by trauma or disease.
- Eye injuries: A penetrating injury to the eye or eye surgery can cause astigmatism by altering the shape of the cornea or lens.
- Keratoconus: A progressive eye disorder which causes the cornea to thin and bulge outward.
Treatment Options
Fortunately, astigmatism can be corrected with various treatment options. The most common methods include:
- Eyeglasses: Prescription eyeglasses can compensate for the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, allowing light to focus properly on the retina.
- Contact lenses: Toric contact lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism. These lenses can counteract the irregularities in the eye’s shape.
- Refractive surgery: In some cases, refractive surgery can be a viable option for correcting astigmatism. Procedures such as LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea to improve vision.
- Cataract surgery or clear lens exchange: The blurry vision of astigmatism can also be overcome inside the eye with surgery, by replacing the natural lens with a premium artificial lens. This type of procedure is performed in cataract and clear lens exchange (CLE) surgeries.
It is important to consult with an eye care professional to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs. The experts at Tyson Eye will perform a comprehensive eye examination to diagnose the severity of your astigmatism and recommend the treatment that is right for you.
Come See Us!
If you suspect you might have astigmatism, schedule an appointment with our expert eye doctors today.
Tyson Eye is regarded as one of the premier eye care centers in Southwest Florida. Our surgeons and doctors have helped thousands of people enjoy better vision and have consistently introduced breakthrough technology to the area. We are committed to excellence by delivering modern technology with old-fashioned concern.
We’re here to help you see better! Call us at 239-542-2020 today or request an appointment.
