What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common vision problem caused by an error in the cornea’s shape and the eye’s front surface. However, light passes or refracts to your retina, which causes blurry, fuzzy, or distorted vision—the causes, types, and treatment.
Types
The two main types of astigmatism are corneal and lenticular. However, corneal astigmatism happens when your cornea is misshapen, while lenticular astigmatism happens when your lens mishappen.
Causes
The cause of astigmatism is not known yet, but genetics is a significant factor. However, it’s often present at birth, but it may develop later in life. Secondly, it may also occur as a result of an injury to the eye or after eye surgery. It often occurs with nearsightedness or farsightedness. Also, it can occur in children and adults. Moreover, the risk of developing astigmatism may be higher if you have any of the following:
- A family history of astigmatism or other eye disorder such as keratoconus(degeneration of the cornea)
- Scarring or thinning of your cornea
- Excessive nearsightedness creates blurry at a distance
- Extreme farsightedness makes blurry close-up vision
- A history of certain types of eye surgery such as cataract surgery ( surgical removal of a clouded lens)
Symptoms of Astigmatism
The symptoms of astigmatism may differ in each person. However, some people don’t have any symptoms at all, but some of the symptoms of include:
- Blurry, distorted, or fuzzy vision at all distances( up, close and far away)
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Eyestrain
- Squinting
- Eye irritation
- Headaches
Above all, see a doctor if you have symptoms of astigmatism. Some signs may also be due to other health or vision problems.
Treatment of Astigmatism
Treatment | Pros | Cons |
Glasses |
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Contact lens |
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Laser eye or Lens surgery |
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