Astigmatism is a common refractive error that causes blurred or distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Instead of a perfectly round shape, the cornea has an oval or football-like curvature, leading to uneven light refraction. Astigmatism can occur alongside myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness).
ASTIGMATISM TREATMENT
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Symptoms of Astigmatism
- Blurred or distorted vision at all distances
- Eye strain and headaches
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Frequent squinting
Causes of Astigmatism
- Genetics: Often present from birth
- Eye injuries or surgery: Scarring can affect corneal shape
- Keratoconus: A progressive thinning disorder of the cornea
Treatment Options for Astigmatism
1. Prescription Glasses
- Corrective lenses compensate for the irregular curvature, improving vision.
- A toric lens design is used to correct astigmatism specifically.
2. Contact Lenses
- Toric Contact Lenses: Specially designed soft lenses that align with the cornea’s shape.
- Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Provide sharper vision by reshaping the cornea.
- Hybrid Lenses: Combine RGP clarity with soft lens comfort.
3. Laser Eye Surgery
For individuals seeking a permanent correction, laser procedures reshape the cornea:
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): Reshapes the cornea for improved focus.
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): Suitable for thinner corneas, removes a small layer of tissue.
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): A minimally invasive alternative to LASIK.
4. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
- Specialized rigid contact lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea.
- Provides clear vision during the day without glasses or contacts.
Conclusion
Astigmatism is highly treatable with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery. An eye examination helps determine the best option based on the severity of the condition and individual lifestyle needs.
