Understanding Astigmatism: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Astigmatism is a common eye condition that occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision at both near and far distances. With millions of people affected by astigmatism worldwide, understanding the condition, its causes, and the available treatment options are critical for maintaining optimal eye health and vision clarity.

In this informative article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of astigmatism, helping you better understand the condition and seek appropriate treatment to maintain clear and comfortable vision.

At Lifetime Vision Care, we are home of the best eye doctors in Bend, OR and are dedicated to providing exceptional eye care services, including the diagnosis and management of various eye conditions, such as astigmatism.

Our commitment to eye care excellence ensures that we stay current on the latest research and advancements in vision care to offer our patients the most effective treatment options tailored to their unique needs.

In this article, we will explore the anatomic factors contributing to astigmatism, discuss the symptoms experienced by those with the condition, and provide insights into the various treatment options available, including eyeglasses, contact lenses, and corrective surgery.

Through extensive information and knowledge sharing, we aim to empower you to take better care of your vision and be well-informed about managing astigmatism effectively.

If you suspect that you have astigmatism or have concerns about your eye health, please schedule a comprehensive eye examination in Bend, OR with one of our skilled optometrists at Lifetime Vision Care today.

Through our dedication to providing high-quality eye care, we are here to support you in achieving and maintaining healthy eyes and clear vision throughout your lifetime.

Causes of Astigmatism: An Anatomical Perspective

Astigmatism can be attributed to either the cornea or the lens, which are responsible for focusing light onto the retina to form clear, sharp images. In a normal eye, the cornea and lens have a smooth, symmetrical curvature. However, in individuals with astigmatism, the cornea or lens may have an irregular shape, causing light to focus unevenly on the retina.

The most common cause of astigmatism is:

• Corneal Astigmatism: This occurs when the cornea has an irregular shape, causing an inconsistent focus of light on the retina.
• Lenticular Astigmatism: This type of astigmatism results from an irregularly shaped lens rather than an irregular cornea.

The exact cause of the irregular shape of the cornea or lens is not entirely clear, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Astigmatism

Symptoms of astigmatism can vary among individuals and may often remain unnoticed, especially in cases of mild astigmatism. Common symptoms associated with astigmatism include:

• Blurred or distorted vision at both near and far distances
• Difficulty seeing clearly at night or in dim lighting
• Frequent squinting or closing one eye to see clearly
• Headaches or eyestrain
• Discomfort or fatigue while reading, working on a computer, or performing other visual tasks

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

Several treatment options are available to help correct astigmatism and improve vision. The choice of treatment will depend on the severity of the astigmatism, individual preferences, and lifestyle needs. The primary treatment options for astigmatism include:

• Eyeglasses: Prescription eyeglasses with specially designed lenses, called cylindrical lenses, are the most common and straightforward treatment for astigmatism. They work by compensating for the irregular shape of the cornea or lens, ensuring that light focuses correctly on the retina.
• Contact Lenses: Similar to eyeglasses, contact lenses can correct astigmatism by compensating for the irregularity of the cornea or lens. Different types of contact lenses are available to address astigmatism, including toric lenses, rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, or hybrid lenses.
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed RGP lenses overnight that temporarily reshape the cornea, correcting or reducing astigmatism. This treatment is non-surgical and reversible if discontinued.
• Corrective Surgery: Refractive surgery options, such as LASIK or PRK, can permanently reshape the cornea, correcting astigmatism and improving vision. These procedures involve using a laser to remove a small amount of corneal tissue, creating a more regular shape for improved focusing of light on the retina.

Regular Eye Examinations for Optimal Vision Care

Regular eye examinations are crucial for detecting and addressing vision issues like astigmatism. A comprehensive eye examination involves:

• Assessing your overall eye health
• Measuring visual acuity to determine your prescription
• Checking for other vision issues or eye conditions

By consistently monitoring your eye health and vision, your optometrist can recommend the most suitable treatment options and adjustments to your eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed, ensuring optimal vision clarity and eye health over time.

Understanding astigmatism, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options are essential for maintaining clear and comfortable vision. By seeking regular eye examinations and professional guidance, you can effectively manage astigmatism and protect your eye health.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule a comprehensive eye examination with Lifetime Vision Care, your trusted eye doctor in Bend, Oregon. Our skilled optometrists are committed to providing high-quality eye care to support you in achieving and maintaining healthy eyes and clear vision throughout your lifetime. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of astigmatism or just want to ensure the health of your eyes, we’re here to help. Contact us to schedule your vision appointment and take the first step towards clear vision and healthy eyes.