Overview
Astigmatism is a common eye condition caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, leading to blurred or distorted vision at all distances. It often occurs alongside nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Causes
Irregular shape of the cornea or lens Genetic predisposition Eye injuries or surgery Conditions like keratoconus that thin the cornea
Symptoms
Blurred or distorted vision Difficulty seeing at night Eye strain or discomfort Headaches Squinting to see clearly
Diagnosis
Comprehensive eye examination Visual acuity test using eye charts Keratoscopy or corneal topography to map corneal curvature Refraction test to determine prescription needs
Treatment
Corrective glasses with special cylindrical lenses Contact lenses designed for astigmatism Refractive surgery, such as LASIK or PRK, in eligible patients Regular eye check-ups to monitor changes
Complications
Persistent blurred vision if untreated Eye strain and headaches Difficulty with daily activities like driving or reading
Prevention & Management
Regular eye examinations to detect and correct astigmatism early Wearing prescribed corrective lenses consistently Protect eyes from injury and UV exposure Maintain good eye hygiene and avoid rubbing the eyes excessively