Astigmatism What is it?

Have you tried covering one of your eyes while looking at a certain object and then changes to cover the other eye? If yes, what is your observation regarding the object you are looking at? If the object moves as if you’re right eye is seeing it in a different position than your left eye, then you might have astigmatism. Astigmatism what is it?

Astigmatism is an eye condition wherein there is blurring of vision or a sense that each eye is seeing an object in different ways. Astigmatism is not a vision problem but a structural problem. In this condition, the shape of the cornea is altered. Normally, the eyes should be spherical in shape or like a ball but in astigmatism, the cornea is curved like a foot ball. When the light enters the eye, it is refracted in different direction which is not good. Light, as it enters the eye, should be directed on the retina. Since the light is refracted in different areas, only a part of the object is in focus at one time. When looking at objects at far places, the objects are blurry and seem wavy.

Astigmatism is usually hereditary but there are also external factors that can contribute to this condition such as pressure from the eyelids, incorrect posture, and increased use of the eyes for close work.

Those who have astigmatism usually experience the following: headache, eye strain, blurring of vision, and fatigue. If these symptoms are observed, it is best to see an ophthalmologist in order to correct the any seen alterations in the eyes.

Diagnosing astigmatism nowadays is very easy. Ophthalmologists have machines that can assess the structure of the eyes and how the eyes cater the light going inside them. By simply positioning your face on a machine and allowing the doctor to inspect your eyes, you will have your eyes checked in five minutes or less.

Treatment for astigmatism includes corrective eye glasses or contact lenses. For those with slight degree of astigmatism, corrective eye glasses may not be needed. Corrective lenses for astigmatism are called toric lenses. Toric lenses have high light bending power which helps organize the scattered light in astigmatism. Another way to manage astigmatism is through refractive surgery. In this surgery, the shape of the cornea is altered through laser. One requirement for refractive surgery is that the eyes should be free from retinal problems, eye diseases and corneal scars. For specific details regarding refractive surgery, better talk to your doctor about it.

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