Astigmatism is a common visual impairment that impacts the eye’s ability to focus light. This means that some parts of a person’s field of vision may appear blurry. If you believe that you are experiencing this issue, there are eye care options available to treat it. Below are answers to a few questions that you may have to help you understand the condition.

Answers to Common Astigmatism Questions

What causes it?

Usually, the cornea is perfectly round, but astigmatism occurs when something distorts it into an oval shape. This can happen due to an eye injury or surgical mistake. However, it is often present since birth and becomes apparent when a child is old enough to verbalize their eye care and vision issues.

What are the signs?

Blurry vision is the most common symptom, particularly if it occurs in the same area. It may also lead to eye strain, squinting, and headaches, especially when looking at a digital screen. Often, children born with astigmatism don’t notice symptoms, but the condition will worsen over time without proper treatment and correction.

How do doctors diagnose it?

A basic eye exam can diagnose astigmatism. Your eye doctor may ask you to read a chart, and then put different lenses in front of your eyes to see if they refract light properly. They may also perform a keratometry test, which looks at the shape and curves of your corneas.

What treatments are available?

Corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses can treat the condition and allow a person to see clearly. This doesn’t change the shape of the cornea, but it corrects blurry vision and prevents eye strain. Some patients may also require corrective vision surgery, which alters the shape of the cornea permanently.

If you’re concerned about astigmatism and want to discuss your eye care options, contact Staarman Family Vision Center Inc. in Fairfield, OH. Serving patients throughout the Cincinnati area, the vision center provides eye exams, vision therapy, glasses, contact lenses, and post-operative care. The team works with patients to create personalized care plans, and they accept most insurance policies to keep treatments affordable. To schedule an eye care appointment, call (513) 874-1718. Visit the website for more information about their services.