Astigmatism is one of the most common vision conditions, yet many people aren’t sure what it really means. At Today’s Vision Creekside in Tomball, TX, also serving patients in The Woodlands, TX, we’ve gathered answers to frequently asked questions about astigmatism to help you better understand it.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular curve. Instead of being perfectly round, it’s shaped more like a football. This causes light to focus unevenly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
What Are the Symptoms?
Common symptoms include blurry vision at all distances, eye strain, headaches, and trouble seeing clearly at night. Some people may also notice that printed words look shadowed or doubled.
How Is Astigmatism Diagnosed?
An optometrist can detect astigmatism during a comprehensive eye exam. Tests such as a visual acuity chart, keratometry, or corneal topography measure how light enters the eye and whether the cornea is evenly shaped.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse?
Yes, it can change over time. Astigmatism may increase gradually or stay stable for years. Because changes aren’t always noticeable, regular eye exams are important to monitor your vision and update prescriptions as needed.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on the level of correction needed. Options include:
- Eyeglasses: The simplest and most common solution.
- Contact lenses: Soft toric or rigid gas-permeable lenses can provide clearer focus.
- Scleral lenses: These larger lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye), offering exceptional comfort and sharp vision, especially for patients with higher or irregular astigmatism.
- Refractive surgery: Procedures like LASIK may be an option for some patients.
Can Children Have Astigmatism?
Absolutely. Children with uncorrected astigmatism may struggle with reading, concentration, or sports. Regular pediatric eye exams ensure that vision problems are caught early, helping kids succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Call Our Optometrists near You to Learn More About Astigmatism
Clear vision starts with understanding your eyes. If you have questions about astigmatism—or if it’s been more than a year since your last eye exam—call Today’s Vision Creekside in Tomball, TX, serving The Woodlands, TX, at (346) 808-7342 to schedule your appointment.