Astigmatism is a common eye condition that occurs when the curved surface of the eye is not evenly curved, causing blurred vision. While it is possible to see 20/20 with astigmatism, it is not always easy to do so. Individuals with astigmatism may need to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses to help them focus on objects more clearly.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. The shape of the cornea can be affected by genetics, injury, or eye conditions such as keratoconus. Astigmatism can also develop after surgery to the eye.
Treating Astigmatism
Treatment for astigmatism will depend on the severity of the condition. If the astigmatism is mild and does not cause significant vision problems, no treatment may be necessary. Astigmatism can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery. Refractive surgery, such as LASIK, can permanently reshape the cornea to improve vision.
Preventing Astigmatism
Astigmatism is usually caused by genetics or eye injuries, so it is not always possible to prevent it. However, it is important to practice good eye care habits such as wearing protective eyewear when in hazardous environments, and to schedule regular eye exams with an optometrist. Doing so can help to detect astigmatism early and begin treatment before it causes significant vision problems.