Astigmatism is a common vision condition that causes blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the front surface of the eye, the cornea, or the lens inside the eye, has an irregular curve. Instead of being smoothly rounded like a sphere, the surface is shaped more like an American football or the back of a spoon.
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism arises from an imperfection in the curvature of the eye’s cornea or lens, meaning light entering the eye does not focus evenly onto the retina. This irregular shape prevents light rays from converging at a single focal point, leading to blurry or distorted vision at all distances. Objects may look stretched or shadowy, impacting both near and far sight. This condition can be present from birth, often having a genetic component, or it can develop later in life due to factors such as eye injury, eye disease, or certain types of eye surgeries.
Natural Changes and Stability of Astigmatism
Astigmatism generally does not improve on its own in adults, as the irregular shape of the cornea or lens typically remains stable over time and does not spontaneously correct itself. While the underlying condition usually persists, the degree of astigmatism can fluctuate throughout a person’s life. Some infants born with mild astigmatism may experience a natural reduction or resolution of the condition as their eyes develop during early childhood.
For adults, astigmatism tends to remain stable, though it can sometimes slowly progress. Changes in astigmatism can occur later in life, often associated with age-related alterations within the eye’s lens. For example, the development of cataracts, a clouding of the natural lens, can induce or alter existing astigmatism, leading to changes in vision clarity. These shifts are due to internal structural changes, not the eye’s ability to self-correct.
Corrective Measures for Astigmatism
While astigmatism rarely resolves naturally in adults, its effects can be effectively corrected. The most common and accessible methods involve corrective lenses, which compensate for the eye’s irregular shape. Glasses prescribed for astigmatism contain cylindrical lens powers to counteract the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens, ensuring light focuses properly on the retina. Contact lenses also offer a solution, with specialized toric contact lenses designed for astigmatism. These lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to correct the specific refractive error.
Beyond corrective eyewear, refractive surgery provides a more permanent solution by reshaping the cornea. Procedures such as Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) use excimer lasers to precisely remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue. This reshaping helps light rays focus correctly on the retina, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. Other surgical options, such as implantable collamer lenses (ICL), may also be considered in certain cases, offering an alternative for individuals not suitable for laser vision correction.
When to Seek Professional Eye Care
Regular eye examinations are important for detecting and monitoring astigmatism, along with other potential vision issues. An eye care professional can accurately diagnose the presence and degree of astigmatism through a comprehensive eye exam. Early detection allows for timely intervention and appropriate corrective measures to optimize vision.
Consult an eye doctor if you experience symptoms like persistent blurry or distorted vision, eye strain, frequent headaches, or difficulty seeing at night. Sudden changes in vision or discomfort should also prompt an immediate visit. An eye doctor can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable course of action for managing astigmatism.