Astigmatism is a common vision condition where the eye’s shape, specifically the cornea or the lens inside the eye, has an irregular curve. Instead of being perfectly round like a baseball, it is shaped more like a football or the back of a spoon. This irregular shape causes light entering the eye to bend unevenly, leading to blurred or distorted vision at various distances. This article explores how individuals can manage astigmatism and potentially slow its progression.
Understanding Astigmatism and Its Progression
Astigmatism arises when the clear front surface of the eye (cornea) or the internal lens has mismatched curves, causing light to bend improperly. This results in blurred vision at all distances as light rays focus on multiple points instead of a single point on the retina. While many individuals are born with astigmatism, its severity can change or worsen over a person’s lifetime.
Several factors contribute to these changes, including natural aging processes, eye injuries, or specific eye conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges. As people age, the eye’s lens can become less flexible, and the cornea’s shape may subtly alter. Genetics also plays a role, as a family history of astigmatism can increase an individual’s likelihood of developing or experiencing progression.
Common activities often mistakenly blamed for worsening vision do not directly cause astigmatism to progress. For example, reading in dim light or prolonged screen use can cause eye strain and temporary discomfort like headaches or blurred vision, but they do not permanently alter the eye’s structure or increase astigmatism.
Everyday Habits for Eye Health
Everyday habits support overall eye health and reduce strain, though they cannot directly correct astigmatism or halt its progression. Incorporating regular screen breaks is beneficial, especially for those who spend extended periods using digital devices. Following the “20-20-20 rule”—looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes—helps reduce digital eye strain, fatigue, and dryness.
Proper lighting in work and living spaces is important for eye comfort. Certain light sources are generally better for the eyes than harsh fluorescent lighting. Positioning light sources to minimize glare and ensuring adequate illumination can prevent eye fatigue.
A balanced diet rich in specific nutrients also contributes to maintaining healthy eyes. Foods high in Vitamin A, Omega-3 fatty acids, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E are particularly beneficial, found in many fruits, vegetables, and fish. Limiting excess sugar and refined carbohydrates can also support eye health.
Protecting eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation is important. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays helps prevent long-term damage. Staying well-hydrated by drinking sufficient water daily supports tear production and can help prevent dry eyes.
Professional Care and Treatment Options
Regular comprehensive eye examinations are important for managing astigmatism. They allow eye care professionals to monitor any changes in vision and adjust corrective measures as needed. These exams help detect shifts in the eye’s shape or other conditions that might influence astigmatism progression.
Corrective lenses are the most common and straightforward approach to managing astigmatism symptoms. Eyeglasses are fitted with specialized cylindrical or spherocylindrical lenses designed to counteract the eye’s uneven curvature, ensuring light focuses correctly on the retina. Similarly, toric contact lenses are custom-made with two distinct curves to properly align with the astigmatic eye, providing clear vision.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a non-surgical option involving specially designed rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while a person sleeps, temporarily correcting refractive errors like astigmatism. This method can provide clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
For individuals seeking a more permanent solution, several surgical options are available to reshape the cornea. Consulting an eye care professional is essential to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on individual eye health and lifestyle.
Surgical Options
- Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK): Involves creating a thin corneal flap before using a laser to reshape underlying tissue.
- Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK): Reshapes the cornea after removing its outer layer.
- Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE): A minimally invasive procedure where a laser creates and removes a corneal tissue lenticule through a small incision.
- Astigmatic Keratotomy (AK): Involves making precise incisions in the cornea.