Astigmatism is a common vision condition causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances. This refractive error arises from an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, affecting how light focuses on the retina. This article explores its nature, duration, and available management and correction methods.
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism occurs when the eye’s front surface, the cornea, or the internal lens has mismatched curves. Instead of a perfectly spherical shape, like a basketball, the affected structure is shaped more like a football, with one curve steeper than the other. This irregular curvature causes light to bend unevenly, preventing it from focusing precisely onto a single point on the retina.
There are two primary types: corneal astigmatism, from an irregularly shaped cornea, and lenticular astigmatism, from an irregular lens inside the eye. While often hereditary and present from birth, astigmatism can also develop later due to eye injury, certain eye diseases like keratoconus, or complications following eye surgery.
The Lifespan of Astigmatism
Astigmatism is generally a permanent condition that does not resolve on its own. It often begins in childhood, and while it can remain stable, it also has the potential to change. Minor shifts in prescription are common over time, often linked to the eye’s natural aging process.
The condition can fluctuate or worsen with age, particularly in older adults. This progression can be due to changes in the lens, such as presbyopia (the natural hardening of the lens) or the development of cataracts (clouding of the lens). Eye injuries or conditions like keratoconus can also cause astigmatism to develop or worsen later in life. Once present, it typically persists, requiring ongoing management if it affects vision.
Managing and Correcting Astigmatism
Effective management is important for clear vision, as astigmatism is a lasting condition. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination, including a visual acuity test, a refraction test, and keratometry to measure corneal curvature. Corneal topography, which creates a detailed map of the cornea’s surface, can also provide precise information about its shape.
Corrective options include eyeglasses, utilizing cylindrical lenses to properly bend light, and toric contact lenses, designed to match the eye’s irregular curvature. For those seeking to reduce reliance on glasses or contacts, refractive surgery like LASIK, PRK, and SMILE can reshape the cornea to correct the refractive error. LASIK, for instance, uses lasers to improve how light focuses on the retina.
When to Consult an Eye Care Professional
Regular eye exams are important for maintaining eye health and detecting vision changes. If symptoms like blurred or distorted vision, headaches, eye strain, or difficulty with night vision emerge, it is advisable to consult an eye care professional. These symptoms can indicate astigmatism or other underlying eye conditions.
Only an eye care professional can accurately diagnose astigmatism and recommend the most appropriate course of action. Seeking professional guidance ensures proper management and correction tailored to individual needs, preventing potential complications and preserving vision.