Astigmatism
Astigmatism is one of the conditions optometrists test for during a comprehensive eye exam. Astigmatism is a refractive error in which there is an "imperfection in the curvature of your eye" which can cause blurred vision and difficulty in seeing details.
In other words, for some reason, the naturally spherical shape of your eye allows light to come in and distributes it evenly giving you clear and crisp vision. However, if the shape of your eye changes, creating a refraction, the cornea or lens can't focus light correctly onto the retina therefore causing blurred vision.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is one of the most common vision problems. However, the specific cause for astigmatism remains unknown. It can occur because of hereditary reasons, which usually makes it present at birth. Astigmatism is also more likely to occur if you have conditions such as hyperopia (farsightedness) or myopia (nearsightedness). It can also occur from putting pressure on your eyeball or straining your eyes.
Astigmatism also develops overtime. It develops slowly but still none the less, so it is important for you to get your eyes checked annually so you can catch it early and take the necessary steps to keep it under control.
Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, some symptoms of astigmatism are:- Blurry vision
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
How Do You Find Out If You Have Astigmatism?
Astigmatism can be easily detected through a standard comprehensive eye exam performed by your local optometrist. The doctor can determine if you have astigmatism, if you have it one or both eyes and to which degree you have it.
How to Fix Astigmatism?
The good news is simply wearing glasses or contacts can correct most astigmatisms by altering the way light enters your eyes. Standard soft contact lenses conform to the shape of your eye; therefore you need to wear toric lenses, which are soft contacts specifically created for astigmatism.
Visit your local Eyeglass World today if you are experiencing vision difficulties.
