Are you experiencing blurred or distorted vision? It could be astigmatism. Astigmatism is a common eye condition that affects millions of people and is often inherited. It occurs when the front surface of your eye, called the cornea, is slightly irregular in shape. This prevents light from properly focusing on your retina, leading to blurred vision. Understanding astigmatism can help you take steps to manage the condition and maintain your healthy vision. Learn more about this common but misunderstood eye condition.
Some common symptoms of astigmatism include blurred or fuzzy vision, headaches and eyestrain. Some people might also need help with glaring lights or find driving challenging at night. It’s important not to dismiss these symptoms; any sudden or uncomfortable changes in your vision warrant a visit to an eye doctor.
Astigmatism often occurs naturally and can be present from birth. It is frequently a genetic condition passed down through families. Sometimes, it may develop or worsen after an eye injury or surgery. Astigmatism can also be related to other eye health conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape.
If you’re diagnosed with astigmatism, don’t panic! Several treatment options are available to help correct your vision. Corrective eyewear is the most common and simple solution. Certain eyeglasses come with special lenses that compensate for the uneven curving of your cornea or lens. Contact lenses are another option. Prescription contact lenses can provide clearer, more expansive fields of vision than glasses. Another route to consider is refractive or laser eye surgery, which physically reshapes your cornea to restore normal vision.
Living with astigmatism might require adjusting to wearing corrective lenses or contacts. Regular check-ups with your eye doctor are crucial to monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your corrective lenses.
Managing astigmatism is possible with the help of experienced eye care professionals. The team at Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry is your go-to if you live in or around Reston, VA. Don’t hesitate to call us at (703) 660-9494 (Alexandria), (703) 413-1400 (Crystal City), (703) 522-7676 (Clarendon), (703) 573-1200 (Falls Church), or (703) 467-9080 (Reston). You may also fill out our contact form to book a consultation.