Astigmatism is a common eye condition caused by an irregularity in the cornea. When the eye is not perfectly round, the unusual shape prevents it from focusing light equally, which in turn affects your vision. Below outlines what you should know about this condition and how your eye doctor can correct the problem.

A Guide to Astigmatism

Signs & Symptoms

Because the eye favors one direction when it bends light, the condition usually causes your vision to be blurred or distorted. Items far away may look wavy or unclear, and only part of an object may be in focus. You may feel eye fatigue at the end of the day or get headaches from the strain. People often find it more difficult to see at night.

Treatment

If your issues are minor, you may not need to take immediate action. Otherwise, your eye doctor may prescribe corrective lenses. Toric contact lenses will bend light towards one direction to make up for the irregularity in the eye. In more severe cases, refractive surgery may be used, in which lasers reshape the cornea.

Prevention

Most people are born with astigmatism. It may also be caused by eye disease, injury, or surgery. You can prevent unpleasant symptoms, however, by getting diagnosed as quickly as possible. Routine eye exams will allow your optometrist to catch any changes in your vision before you notice them.

If you’re experiencing symptoms, your eye doctor can diagnose astigmatism with an exam. They’ll use tools such as an autorefractor, which shines light into the eye and measures how it bounces back off the cornea.

Alexander Eye Associates & Optical diagnoses and treats astigmatism at their clinic in Rochester, NY. Their eye doctor offers comprehensive care, from routine eye exams to corrective eye surgery such as Lasik. They carry a wide selection of affordably priced designer eyewear and discounted lenses as well. Learn more on their website and call (585) 325-3070 to schedule an appointment.