Symptoms of Astigmatism Explained: Causes and Diagnosis

Astigmatism Overview: Common Symptoms, Causes, and Detection

Astigmatism disease is a common refractive error that affects millions across the globe. Typically, it may be a result of an inappropriate curvature of the cornea or the lens, which makes vision blurry. Whether it's a near object or a distant one, astigmatism can make it difficult for vision to perform the tasks that we face in everyday life.

Moreover, understanding the cause of astigmatism will be the first step in finding a solution to this problem. Among the most common signs are headaches and fatigue of the eyes which may seem trivial. Thankfully, most people may find beneficial outcomes when correct lenses are used.

In this blog, we'll dive into the causes of astigmatism and how to identify its symptoms. If you've noticed any vision problems, this could be your guide to better eyesight.

What is an Astigmatism?

Astigmatism, an eye condition that causes blurred vision, is in fact a common defect affecting the focus of vision and is caused by an abnormality in the cornea or lens. An astigmatic eye may have a cornea or lens that has more of an oblong shape due to the elliptical shape of these structures.

Regardless of the distance, it would be hard to see any distance. People suffering from astigmatism eye struggle with the organ's ability to concentrate light.

More often than not, the diagnosis is made as soon as the eye exam is performed. Otherwise, corrections may include eyeglasses or contact lenses, which modify the light that strikes the retina. Some may even seek surgical solutions that can modify the cornea.

What are the Causes of Astigmatism?

Astigmatism occurs when light passing through the eye is scattered due to some surface having an anomalous shape that is the cornea or lens of the eye. It is the presence of some irregularity in the curve of the cornea or lens that causes refractive error, distortion, or blurriness in vision.

But how does one get an astigmatism eye? In as much as it is common, its precise origin is still unknown. Infants are known to have it, while in some people, it develops during a young age.

Some cases of astigmatism disease can result from specific factors, including:

Eye injuries that alter the shape of the cornea or lens.
Eye surgeries that unintentionally affect the curvature of the eye.
Eye diseases, such as keratoconus, which causes thinning and bulging of the cornea.

Interestingly, genetics play a role in the risk of astigmatism, as the tendency to develop this condition can be inherited. While there's no known way to prevent astigmatism, understanding its causes helps in managing and treating the condition effectively.

Types of Astigmatism

There are mainly 3 types of astigmatism, and they are as follows:

Myopic Astigmatism: In this kind of astigmatism, both or one primary meridians of the eye are nearsighted.
Hyperopic Astigmatism: In hyperopic astigmatism, both or one meridians are farsighted.
Mixed Astigmatism: In this type of astigmatism, one principal meridian is farsighted, and the other is nearsighted.

What are the Possible Symptoms of Astigmatism?

Astigmatism can lead to several noticeable symptoms that affect daily life and overall eye health. The most common sign is blurry or distorted vision, making it challenging to see details—whether it's reading the fine print on a menu or recognizing distant road signs. Many individuals also experience squinting as they try to focus on objects more clearly.

Additional possible symptoms of astigmatism include:

Glare or halos around lights, especially at night.
Persistent headaches and fatigue from strained vision.
Eye strain, particularly after prolonged tasks like reading or screen time.

In mild cases, symptoms may go unnoticed, especially in children who might not realize their vision isn't normal. Regular eye exams are vital to catch such issues early and ensure clear, comfortable sight for all.

Complications of Astigmatism

Untreated astigmatism can progress into complications that may compromise vision and threaten eye health. One major concern is the lazy eye (amblyopia), which occurs when one eye is more astigmatic than the other or when one eye is left uncorrected.

Furthermore, unattended astigmatism often leads to consistent muscle effort in the eyes and recurrent headaches during incidents that require concentration. This could be the answer to the question of why the surgery is demonstrated as an alternative treatment.

However, every treatment carries certain pitfalls. Minor complaints such as dryness of the eye, photophobia, and difficulty with night vision are not uncommon to experience after surgery but tend to resolve naturally over several weeks.

More significant complications like loss of vision or poorly controlled postoperative vision are rare but do exist. Such concerns can be avoided by treating astigmatism in the first place, which would, in turn, guarantee good ocular health. The condition demands regular monitoring as well as timely intervention to avoid any protrusion of the disorder.

How is an Astigmatism Diagnosed?

Astigmatism is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam conducted by an eye care specialist. During the examination, the specialist closely evaluates your eyes, including their internal structures, to identify any irregularities. To confirm the presence of astigmatism and measure its severity, several specialized tests may be used.

Key tests for diagnosing astigmatism include:

Visual Acuity Test: This test checks your ability to see clearly by asking you to read letters or symbols from a wall chart. It determines if your vision is blurry or distorted.
Refraction Test: A tool is used to measure how light bends as it enters your eye. This helps determine the degree of your astigmatism.
Keratometry: This test measures the curve of your cornea to identify irregularities that cause astigmatism.
Slit Lamp Exam: Using a special microscope with a bright beam of light, the specialist examines different layers of your eye to detect any abnormalities.

These diagnostic methods ensure an accurate assessment, allowing for effective treatment options like glasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

Treatments for Astigmatism

The primary goal of treating astigmatism is to enhance vision clarity and ensure eye comfort. There are two main approaches to treatment: corrective lenses and refractive surgery. The right choice depends on the severity of astigmatism and individual needs.

Astigmatism treatment includes:

1.Corrective Lenses

Corrective lenses counteract the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens, restoring proper focus. They include:

Eyeglasses: Designed with special lenses, eyeglasses help light bend correctly into the eye. They can also address other refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Contact lenses: Available in various types, contact lenses can effectively correct most forms of astigmatism.

A unique option, orthokeratology, involves wearing rigid contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. While effective, discontinuing the treatment can revert the eye to its original shape. However, extended wear of contact lenses increases the risk of eye infections, so consulting an eye doctor is essential.

2. Refractive Surgery

Refractive surgery offers a more permanent solution by reshaping the cornea to correct refractive errors. Common procedures include:

A flap is created in the cornea, and a laser reshapes it. The flap is then repositioned.
LASEK: The cornea's protective layer is loosened with alcohol, reshaped using a laser, and replaced.
PRK: The epithelium is removed and naturally regenerates after laser reshaping.
SMILE: A laser creates and removes a lenticule of tissue through a small incision to reshape the cornea.

Other surgical options, such as implantable contact lenses and clear lens extraction, may also be considered. The best treatment depends on a thorough evaluation and a detailed discussion with your eye care specialist.

Choosing the right approach can significantly improve vision and reduce dependence on corrective eyewear. Regular consultations ensure safe and effective outcomes.

How to Prevent Astigmatism

Astigmatism, as a rule, is irreversible. It's mainly of hereditary origin which implies that it occurs in most individuals at birth. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that in certain cases, individuals may develop astigmatism as the eyes grow and develop in early years or young adults.

Key Points to Know About Prevention

Genetic Factors: If either or both parents are diagnosed with astigmatism or other refractive errors, the chance of their children being affected is quite probable.
Natural Development: Certain individuals may develop astigmatisms over time due to the normal ageing process of the eyes.

Astigmatism is a common eye disorder where the cornea, the outer transparent layer of the eye, possesses an irregular, non-optimal shape, which causes a variation in the light rays and subsequently distortion of the image.

It is usually manifested with exposure to bright light, difficulty seeing objects clearly, or even seeing double. This type of condition can result from birth, eye injuries, or any eye surgery as well.

However, astigmatism disease cannot be prevented. Fortunately, there are treatment options available, such as glasses, contact lenses, and surgery like LASIK, which improves the quality of life and vision.

Moreover, to avoid the burden of hefty payments on your wallet, consider getting comprehensive health insurance like Star Health, which ensures you are in good hands and puts your worries at ease.

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FAQ's

What is astigmatism, and what causes it?

Astigmatism is a refractive error where the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, leading to distorted or blurry vision. The causes of astigmatism are typically due to an irregular curvature of the cornea (irregular astigmatism) or the lens (lenticular astigmatism), which can sometimes be caused by cataracts.

What are the common symptoms of astigmatism?

Symptoms of astigmatism eye issues include blurry or distorted vision, eyestrain, headaches, and difficulty seeing clearly, especially at night. The severity of the symptoms can vary, with some people experiencing mild discomfort and others noticing significant vision problems.

How is astigmatism diagnosed?

An astigmatism diagnosis is made during a comprehensive eye exam. The eye doctor conducts various tests to check eye health and performs a refraction test, which evaluates how light is bent by the eye. Special instruments and lenses help identify the type and degree of astigmatism.

Is there a natural cure for astigmatism?

While there's no scientifically proven astigmatism cure, some natural remedies, like a healthy diet, eye exercises, and acupuncture, may help reduce strain and improve eye comfort. However, these methods should not replace professional medical treatment.

What are the treatment options for astigmatism?

For regular astigmatism, treatment often includes corrective eyewear like glasses or contact lenses. Astigmatism surgery, such as LASIK, is an option for those who want a more permanent solution. The best treatment for your specific condition will depend on the severity and type of astigmatism you have.