Exploring Astigmatism: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Corrective Solutions

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is irregularly shaped, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Unlike nearsightedness or farsightedness, which affect how the eye focuses light, astigmatism affects the way light is transmitted to the retina. This can result in difficulty seeing objects clearly at any distance.
 

Common Symptoms of Astigmatism

If you have astigmatism, you may experience a range of symptoms that can vary in severity. Some common signs of astigmatism include:
 

• Blurred vision: Objects at any distance may appear blurry or distorted.
• Eye strain: Astigmatism can cause eye fatigue, especially after prolonged periods of reading or using digital devices.
• Headaches: Many people with astigmatism report frequent headaches, particularly after focusing on tasks that require visual concentration.
• Squinting: To compensate for blurry vision, you may find yourself squinting to try and see more clearly.
• Difficulty driving at night: Astigmatism can make it challenging to see clearly in low-light conditions, such as when driving at night.

How is Astigmatism Detected?

To diagnose astigmatism, your optometrist will perform a comprehensive eye examination, which may include the following:
 

• Visual acuity test: This test measures how well you can see at various distances using an eye chart.
• Refraction assessment: Your eye doctor will use a device called a phoropter to determine the appropriate prescription for your eyes. By asking you to look through different lenses, they can identify the lens power that provides you with the clearest vision.
• Corneal topography: This non-invasive test maps the shape of your cornea, allowing the eye doctor to identify any irregularities that may be causing astigmatism.
• Keratometry: This test measures the curvature of the cornea, helping to determine the severity of astigmatism.
• Retinoscopy: Your eye care professional may use a retinoscope to shine a light into your eyes and observe how it reflects off your retina. This helps determine the approximate prescription needed to correct your vision.

Once your eye doctor has gathered all the necessary information, they will be able to diagnose the presence and severity of your astigmatism.
 

Corrective Solutions for Astigmatism

Glasses are a common and effective way to correct astigmatism. Prescription glasses for astigmatism are made with a special cylindrical lens that compensates for the irregular shape of the cornea or lens. These lenses have different powers in different meridians, allowing the light to be focused properly on the retina.
 

Contact lenses are another popular option for correcting astigmatism. There are two main types of contact lenses suitable for astigmatism: toric lenses and gas permeable lenses. Toric lenses are soft contact lenses specifically designed for astigmatism. They have different powers in different meridians, similar to glasses for astigmatism.
 

Gas permeable lenses, also known as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, are a type of hard contact lens that can correct astigmatism. RGP lenses provide excellent visual acuity and are more durable than soft lenses.
 

When considering contact lenses for astigmatism, it is crucial to consult with your optometrist who can guide you in choosing the most suitable option based on your prescription, lifestyle, and comfort preferences.
 

Navigating Astigmatism with the Help of Premier Eyecare Optometric Center

Living with astigmatism doesn't have to be a hindrance to your daily life. With the right diagnosis and corrective solutions, you can enjoy clear and comfortable vision.
 

If you experience symptoms of astigmatism, schedule an eye examination, and discover the right corrective solution for your visual needs. Visit Premier Eyecare Optometric Center at our office in Bakersfield, California, or call 661-588-8222 to book an appointment today.