Astigmatism is a common vision condition that affects many people worldwide. While it may sound complex, it simply refers to an imperfection in the curvature of the eye’s cornea or lens, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Fortunately, astigmatism is easily diagnosable and treatable, allowing those affected to enjoy clear and sharp vision with the right corrective measures.

What is Astigmatism?

In a healthy eye, the cornea and lens should be evenly curved, similar to the shape of a basketball, which allows light to focus precisely on the retina. In astigmatism, however, the cornea or lens is curved irregularly, more like a football. This irregular shape causes light to scatter, leading to blurred vision at all distances. Astigmatism can occur alongside other refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia).
 

Symptoms of Astigmatism

The most common symptom of astigmatism is blurred vision, but you may also experience other symptoms, such as:
 

• Eye strain or discomfort, especially after prolonged tasks like reading or working on a computer
   

• Headaches
   

• Difficulty seeing at night
   

• Squinting to try and improve focus
   

If you experience any of these symptoms, an eye exam can determine if astigmatism is the cause.
 

Diagnosing Astigmatism

Astigmatism is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, where your eye doctor will evaluate the health of your eyes and measure the curvature of your cornea and lens. Some diagnostic tools commonly used include:
 

• Visual Acuity Test – Measures how clearly you see letters on a chart at various distances.
   

• Keratometry – This device measures the curvature of your cornea by focusing a circle of light on it.
   

• Topography – A detailed mapping of the cornea’s surface, providing a precise understanding of its shape.
   

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

The right treatment for astigmatism depends on its severity and personal preference. Here are some of the most effective treatment options available:
 

1. Eyeglasses

Eyeglasses are a simple and effective solution for mild to moderate astigmatism. They use special cylindrical lenses that correct the way light enters the eye, compensating for the irregular curvature. Glasses are a popular choice for their ease of use and versatility in correcting other refractive errors simultaneously.
 

2. Contact Lenses

Contact lenses can provide sharper vision and a wider field of view than glasses for many people with astigmatism. Options include:
 

• Soft Toric Lenses – Specially designed for astigmatism, these lenses have a unique shape that helps them stay oriented on the eye for clear vision.
   

• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses – While these are less common for everyday use, RGP lenses can offer excellent vision correction by maintaining their shape on the eye.
   

• Hybrid Lenses – These lenses combine the comfort of soft lenses with the clarity of RGP lenses, providing a balance for those with high levels of astigmatism.
   

3. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed rigid contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea. Upon waking, you can remove the lenses and experience clear vision throughout the day. This is a non-surgical option suitable for mild to moderate astigmatism and can be ideal for individuals who prefer to be lens-free during the day.
 

Finding the Right Vision Correction Option

Deciding on a treatment for astigmatism depends on various factors, including your lifestyle, vision needs, and the degree of astigmatism. At Premier Eye Care, we can help you understand your options, guiding you toward the solution that best fits your needs. Whether you’re considering eyeglasses, contact lenses, or a more permanent correction like LASIK, our goal is to help you achieve the clearest vision possible.
 

Optimizing Your Vision with Premier Eye Care

Astigmatism is a common condition, and with today’s advanced technology, there are many options to improve your vision. From glasses and contact lenses, finding the right treatment can significantly enhance your quality of life. 
 

Schedule your eye exam with Premier Eye Care to discuss your symptoms and learn more about how we can help you manage astigmatism for clear, comfortable vision. Visit our office in Fort Worth, Texas, or call (817) 428-2020 to book an appointment today.