What is Astigmatism

 Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) is shaped more like a football than a basketball. As a result, light entering the eye is not focused evenly on the retina, which can cause vision to be blurry or distorted at all distances.

Astigmatism is often inherited and is usually present from birth, although it can also develop later in life due to changes in the shape of the eye or other underlying health conditions. It is often accompanied by other refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness) or hypermetropia (farsightedness).

Symptoms of Astigmatism

The most common symptom of astigmatism is blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Other symptoms may include:

  • Eye strain or fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Squinting to see clearly
  • Sensitivity to light

Diagnosis of Astigmatism

Astigmatism is usually diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam, which includes tests to measure visual acuity, refractive error, and the overall health of the eye.

The first step in diagnosing astigmatism is a visual acuity test, which measures how well you can see at different distances. This is typically done using a chart with rows of letters or numbers that get smaller as you move down the chart. You will be asked to read the letters or numbers aloud, and the eye doctor will use this information to determine the level of your astigmatism.

Other tests that may be used to diagnose astigmatism include:

  • Refraction test: This test measures the amount of refractive error in the eye and is used to determine the best eyeglass or contact lens prescription.
  • Keratometry: This test measures the curvature of the cornea to determine the eyeglass or contact lens prescription.
  • Topography: This test creates a detailed map of the surface of the cornea to help determine the eyeglass or contact lens prescription.

Treatment of Astigmatism

The most common treatment for astigmatism is eyeglasses or contact lenses, which correct the refractive error by bending the light entering the eye in such a way that it is focused evenly on the retina. Other treatment options include:

  • Refractive surgery: Procedures such as LASIK and PRK can be used to permanently correct astigmatism by reshaping the cornea to improve its ability to focus light on the retina.
  • Orthokeratology: This treatment involves wearing special contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea and improve vision during the day.

Prevention of Astigmatism

There is no sure way to prevent astigmatism, as it is often inherited or acquired due to changes in the shape of the eye. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing astigmatism or to slow its progression:

  • Protect your eyes from UV radiation: Wear sunglasses or a hat with a brim to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays.
  • Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrients can help maintain overall eye health.
  • Get regular eye exams: Having your eyes checked regularly by an eye doctor can help identify any changes in your vision and allow for early treatment.
  • Take breaks from screens: If you spend a lot of time looking at screens, make sure to take regular breaks to reduce eye strain and fatigue.

Complications of Astigmatism

If left untreated, astigmatism can lead to a number of complications, including:

  • Eye strain and fatigue
  • Headaches

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