Astigmatism is one of the most common vision conditions we see at Navigation Eye Care, and one of the most misunderstood. It’s not a disease, and it doesn’t mean something is wrong with your eye health. It’s simply a difference in how your eye focuses light, and it’s very treatable.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a type of refractive error, a condition where the light entering the eye doesn’t focus directly on the retina, the light sensing tissue at the back of the eye. It’s usually caused by the shape of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye.
Instead of curving evenly in every direction like a round ball, a cornea with astigmatism has steeper and flatter areas, more like the shape of a football than a soccer ball. Because of this uneven curvature, light passing through the cornea splits into two focal points instead of one. Some light focuses in front of the retina, and some focuses behind it (or at the retina itself), instead of both landing in the same place. That mismatch between the two focal points is what we call astigmatism.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
Your eye muscles can shift focus between these two focal points to some degree. But when your eyes are working quickly back and forth trying to compensate, it can cause:
- Headaches around the temples
- Eye strain
- Blurred vision at distance and up close
- Halos around lights
- Glare, especially at night
Treatment Options for Astigmatism
The good news is astigmatism is one of the most straightforward vision conditions to correct. Options include:
Corrective Glasses
Spectacle lenses can be shaped to bring both focal points together into a single, clear image on the retina.
Toric Contact Lenses
Toric lenses are contact lenses specifically designed to correct astigmatism, and there are many options to fit different needs, sizes, and brands. Daily disposable toric lenses are generally our top recommendation for eye health and visual clarity, since a fresh lens each day reduces the risk of buildup and irritation.
Multifocal Toric Lenses
For patients who need both astigmatism correction and help focusing at multiple distances, toric lenses are also available in multifocal or bifocal designs.
For more clinical background, see the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s patient page, Astigmatism Explained: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment.
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam today at Navigation Eye Care in Chesapeake, VA because clear, comfortable vision starts with the right diagnosis and fit.
FAQ
What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an unevenly shaped cornea, which prevents light from focusing at a single point on the retina. It’s not a disease and is very treatable.
What causes astigmatism?
Astigmatism is usually caused by the shape of the cornea, which curves more steeply in some areas and more flatly in others rather than curving evenly like a sphere.
What are the symptoms of astigmatism?
Common symptoms include headaches around the temples, eye strain, blurred vision at any distance, halos around lights, and glare.
How is astigmatism treated?
Astigmatism can be corrected with spectacle lenses or toric contact lenses, including daily disposable and multifocal toric options.
Are toric contact lenses comfortable and safe for daily use?
Yes. There are many toric lens designs, sizes, and brands available, and daily disposable toric lenses are generally recommended for the best combination of comfort, clarity, and eye health.
Schedule your appointment with Navigation Eye Care Chesapeake VA today!