Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a refractive error, meaning it is a problem with how light focuses in the eye rather than an eye disease. It’s not unlike near-sightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia).
You may be experiencing astigmatism if you have any of these symptoms:
- Blurred vision at all distances
- Eye strain especially after periods of prolonged near focus like reading or computer work
- Headaches
- Squinting
What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is when the cornea (the clear window over the front of the eye), which should be spherical - or soccer ball shaped – is instead shaped like a rugby league ball. It has a flat curve from end to end, but a steep curve around the middle. Extending that idea, a rugby league ball can stand up on its end or lie down on its side. Likewise, your astigmatism will have an “axis” somewhere between 0-180°, whereby 180° is the ball lying flat and 90° is the ball standing up on its end.
How to correct astigmatism?
Glasses and contact lenses can be worn to correct astigmatism vision.
Other types of astigmatism?
There is also a type of astigmatism called “lenticular astigmatism” that is far less common, and is caused by the lens inside the eye being misshapen or tilted.
Do you think you might have astigmatism?
Book an eye examination today with our experienced optometrists to find out.