Astigmatism is an eye condition where there is imperfection in the curvature of the eye. The condition is usually mild and easily treated. In most cases, it causes blurred vision.
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Once the anterior eye surface has a difference in the curvature, it results to astigmatism. The surface of the cornea should be even and smooth in all directions. In case the surface is steep or flat in some areas, it results to astigmatism.
It is important to note that the condition is considered hereditary in nature and might be present in combination with nearsightedness or farsightedness. In most cases, it is not serious to require treatment but once it progresses, the treatment includes the use of corrective lenses and surgery.
What are the indications?
- Headache
- Distorted or blurred vision
The condition is usually mild and easily treated. In most cases, it causes blurred vision. - Eye strain
In case the vision of the individual worsens in which he/she could not perform daily activities, a doctor must be consulted.
Management of astigmatism
The main objective in treating astigmatism is to correct the uneven curvature of the cornea responsible for the blurred vision. The commonly used treatment options include corrective lenses and refractive surgery.
Corrective lenses
The corrective lenses are usually used to manage astigmatism. They work by counteracting the uneven curvature of the cornea. The different types include the following:
- Eyeglasses – eyeglasses with special lenses are made to counterbalance the uneven shape of the eye. Aside from correcting astigmatism, eyeglasses can also correct other refractive errors such as nearsightedness or farsightedness.
- Contact lenses – contact lenses are also used to correct the condition and available in soft, hard, extended wear, disposable, rigid gas permeable and bifocal.
Refractive surgery
The refractive surgery options for astigmatism include the following:
- LASIK surgery – this involves the creation of a fine, circular hinged cut into the cornea using a specialized cutting laser. This flap is lifted using an excimer laser to sculpt the shape of the cornea.
- Photorefractive keratectomy – the outer protective layer of the cornea is taken out and an excimer laser is used to change the curvature of the cornea.
- Laser-associated subepithelial keratomileusis
- Radial keratotomy