Astigmatism

Overview

Astigmatism is a common eye condition that causes blurred vision at all distances. It occurs when the front surface of the eye (cornea) or the lens inside the eye has mismatched curves, resulting in an egg-shaped surface instead of a round one. This causes light rays to be bent unevenly, leading to distorted images and blurred vision. Astigmatism is often present at birth and can be accompanied by nearsightedness or farsightedness. Treatment options include corrective lenses or surgery. If you experience blurred vision, eyestrain, headaches, difficulty with night vision, or squinting, you should see an eye doctor to determine if you have astigmatism and discuss the best options for correcting your vision.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of astigmatism may include blurred or distorted vision, eyestrain or discomfort, headaches, difficulty with night vision, and squinting. Astigmatism occurs when the front surface of the eye (cornea) or the lens inside the eye has mismatched curves, causing blurred vision at all distances.

Risk Factors

Risk factors associated with an increased risk of developing astigmatism include:

1. Genetics: Astigmatism often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component.
2. Previous eye injury or inflammation: Trauma or inflammation in the eye can cause astigmatism to develop.
3. Previous eye surgery: Certain types of eye surgery, such as LASIK, can cause astigmatism or worsen existing astigmatism.
4. Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can cause or increase astigmatism.
5. Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking heavily may increase the risk of developing astigmatism. It's essential to note that everyone's eyes are slightly imperfect, and most people with astigmatism don't require corrective lenses or treatment. The severity of astigmatism can vary among individuals.

Development

Astigmatism can develop in two ways: corneal astigmatism and lenticular astigmatism.

1. Corneal astigmatism: This type of astigmatism occurs when the cornea, which is the front surface of the eye, has mismatched curves. The cornea should have a round curvature like the surface of a smooth ball, but in cases of astigmatism, it has an egg-shaped curvature. This causes light rays to be refracted unequally, leading to blurred vision at all distances.
2. Lenticular astigmatism: Lenticular astigmatism occurs when the lens inside the eye has mismatched curves. The lens should also have a round curvature, but in cases of astigmatism, it has an egg-shaped curvature. This also causes unequal refraction of light rays, resulting in blurred vision. Both types of astigmatism can cause blurred vision in different directions, such as horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Astigmatism can be present at birth, or it may develop later in life due to eye injury, disease, or surgery.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

If astigmatism is suspected, you should see an eye doctor to determine the degree of astigmatism and discuss the options for correcting your vision. It's recommended to see an eye doctor if your eye symptoms detract from your enjoyment of activities or interfere with your ability to perform everyday tasks.

Diagnosis

To diagnose astigmatism, an eye exam is conducted, which includes a series of tests to check eye health and a refraction to determine how the eyes bend light. During the exam, the eye doctor may use various instruments, aim bright lights directly at your eyes, and ask you to look through several lenses. The doctor uses these tests to examine different aspects of your eyes and vision and to determine the prescription needed to provide clear vision with eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Management and Treatment

Treatment

The most common way to treat astigmatism is through the use of corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses. These lenses help to counteract the uneven curvatures of the cornea or lens and improve vision clarity and eye comfort. There are also surgical options available, such as LASIK and PRK, which reshape the cornea to improve its ability to focus light properly. In addition to using corrective lenses or undergoing surgery, it is recommended to have regular eye exams and maintain a healthy lifestyle, including managing any underlying medical conditions and following a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for astigmatism, you can follow these suggestions:

1. List any symptoms you're experiencing, including those that may seem unrelated to your vision problem.
2. List key personal information, including major stresses and recent life changes.
3. List all medications, vitamins, and supplements that you're taking, including doses.
4. Create a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as:
   • What is likely causing my