Astigmatism is a refractive error of the eye that causes vision to become blurry or distorted. The condition is usually caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, and can range from mild to severe. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to help prevent astigmatism from getting worse.
The first step is to practice good eye hygiene. This includes regularly washing your hands before touching your face, avoiding rubbing your eyes, and wearing protective eyewear when appropriate. Additionally, it is important to get regular eye exams, especially if you have a family history of astigmatism. During these exams, your optometrist can check for any signs of progression and make recommendations for any potential treatments.
Another way to help prevent astigmatism from getting worse is to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses that are specifically designed to correct the condition. Your optometrist can help you find the right lenses or frames for your needs. Additionally, if you wear contact lenses, make sure to properly clean and store them as instructed to reduce the risk of eye infection.
Finally, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and exercising regularly are all important factors in maintaining good eye health. Additionally, it is important to get enough sleep and to protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses whenever you're outdoors.
By following these steps, you can help to reduce the risk of astigmatism from getting worse. However, if you do notice any changes in your vision or any eye-related symptoms, make sure to contact your optometrist right away.