Yes, 170 astigmatism is considered severe. Astigmatism is an eye condition that causes blurred or distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. When it reaches 170, it is considered to be a high degree of astigmatism and can cause significant vision problems. People with severe astigmatism may have difficulty seeing clearly at all distances, such as near, far, and in between. They may experience headaches, eye strain, and fatigue from trying to focus on objects.
Astigmatism can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or laser eye surgery. However, because it can cause such significant vision problems, it is important to get regular eye exams to monitor the condition. If left untreated, astigmatism can cause more severe vision problems such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and even permanent vision loss.