Astigmatism is a common vision condition caused by refractive errors in the cornea or lens. In cases of astigmatism, the light entering the eye fails to focus correctly on the retina, and results in blurred or distorted vision. Astigmatism usually occurs in otherwise healthy eyes, and is frequently found in addition to myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and presbyopia.
There are two major classifications of astigmatism: regular and irregular. In irregular astigmatisms, the meridians of the cornea are not perpendicular to each other as they should be. Irregular astigmatisms can result from corneal scarring due to injury, certain types of eye surgery, or keratoconus. Irregular astigmatisms in those without the presence of eye disease or injury is unknown.
Causes
Astigmatism is a natural and commonly occurring cause of blurred or distorted vision that is usually associated with an imperfectly shaped cornea. The exact cause is not known.
However, irregular astigmatism usually causes some type of distortion in your vision and neither spectacles, nor medically necessary contact lenses, correct the vision.
The exact cause of irregular astigmatism without the presence of eye disease or injury is not known. There may be some forms of irregular astigmatism that are genetic and could be caused by large amounts of astigmatism that rapidly progress in teen years and eventually stretch the cornea and distort the vision.
Symptoms
Symptoms of astigmatism include:
- Blurred vision
- Eye fatigue
- Eyestrain
Astigmatism is typically found during comprehensive eye exams, which is why it is important to have regular vision exams. At Insight Complete Eye Care, we specialize in corneal abnormalities and will find the best solution for your unique vision condition.
Treatment
Treatment options may include:
- Glasses
- Toric soft contact lenses
- Rigid gas-permeable contact lenses
- Hybrid contact lenses
- Ortho-k
- Refractive surgery.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact our office today at (214) 739-8611 to schedule your comprehensive vision exam with Insight Complete Eye Care!