Astigmatism is a common eye condition that can occur at any age. It is caused by an irregular shape of the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. People with astigmatism may experience blurred vision, difficulty seeing in dim light, or headaches due to eyestrain. While astigmatism is often present from birth, it can also develop as people age.
Does Astigmatism Become Worse as People Age?
The answer to this question is not simple. In some cases, astigmatism can worsen with age. This can be a result of presbyopia, a condition that makes it difficult to focus on close objects. As people get older, their eyes tend to lose flexibility, which can cause the cornea to become less regular in shape. This can lead to an increase in astigmatism.
On the other hand, astigmatism can also improve with age. In some cases, the irregular shape of the cornea can become more regular over time, resulting in a decrease in astigmatism.
Treatment
If astigmatism becomes worse with age, the condition can often be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery. Depending on the severity of the condition, an ophthalmologist or optometrist will be able to recommend the most suitable treatment.
In conclusion, astigmatism can worsen or improve with age. It is important to have regular eye exams to ensure that any changes in vision are detected early and addressed appropriately. With proper treatment, astigmatism can be managed to maintain good vision.