Although there are many issues that can cause vision impairment, one of the most common ocular problems is astigmatism. If the cornea of the eye is misshapen, a person is said to have astigmatism because light is prevented from properly entering the retina, causing blurred vision at every angle. Learn more about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for astigmatism that you may want to take into consideration before your next eye exam.

Symptoms

Catching symptoms of astigmatism can be tricky, as these can be associated with other eye health issues, making it important to get an eye exam. Aside from blurred vision, symptoms may include fatigue or headaches, both of which can be caused by cloudy eyesight. If you notice a change in your eyesight, make sure to visit your optometrist as soon as possible to get checked for astigmatism.

Diagnosis

Optometrists can discover astigmatism through a comprehensive eye exam. Doctors test the eyes for visual acuity, curvature of the cornea and how the eyes focus light. Depending on the results of these tests, the patient may receive a diagnosis for astigmatism and decide on a method of treatment.

Treatment

There are three popular forms of treatment for astigmatism, all of which are proven to work incredibly well and restore eyesight to its proper state.

• Eyeglasses: This is the most common form of treatment, as there is little to no upkeep and are easily removable. The glasses made for this condition use a cylindrical lens prescription that works to counteract the astigmatism.
• Contact Lenses: Patients usually find contacts to work better in terms of overall vision enhancement because the lens covers the entire eye, providing a clearer, wider field of view. We recommend the brand Acuvue, which has a lens created specifically for eyes with astigmatism.
• LASIK Eye Surgery: This option is a bit more extreme since the tissue causing the curvature around the eye is removed with a laser, but patients have seen excellent, long-lasting results from this surgery. However, we urge you to do research and find an experienced surgeon before booking this procedure.

To learn more about astigmatism or to book an eye exam at Valley Eyecare Center, call (602) 242-6888 or visit our website.