Are You on the Lookout for Astigmatism?

• Posted on: Oct 15 2019
• By: editor

There are a few common eye conditions that may affect how well we see at near or far distances. For vision to be sharp and clear, light must enter the front of the eye, pass through the lens and the cornea, the vitreous fluid, and land on the retina at the back of the eye. With multiple layers to go through, light may meet an obstacle anywhere along the way. Astigmatism is the obstacle of a poorly curved cornea. Here, we take a look at astigmatism details you may want to know.

• For light to pass through the eye efficiently, the cornea needs to be round, like a ball. Astigmatism is the condition characterized by an oblong or football-shaped curve in the cornea. Depending on the severity of this curve, light is scattered mildly or significantly, preventing a clear landing on the retina.
• Sometimes, astigmatism develops in the lens, not the cornea. The curved lens is referred to as lenticular astigmatism and may require specific treatment such as refractive lens replacement for successful vision correction.
• Astigmatism affects vision but may cause other symptoms, too. The more severe the visual effects of astigmatism, the more likely it may be for a person to also experience eye strain, ocular headaches, and light sensitivity.
• It may not be possible to prevent astigmatism. Some studies indicate that the condition may be passed down genetically.
• Astigmatism can develop in children. Eye exams should begin before a child enters school; earlier if they demonstrate vision difficulties such as squinting or tilting their head when observing objects or trying to read. Without proper care, astigmatism in children can progress to other problems, such as amblyopia, or lazy eye.

Getting Help for Astigmatism

The LASIK procedure has demonstrated high success rates at correcting astigmatism, as well as nearsightedness and farsightedness. The in-office procedure is performed with a sophisticated excimer laser that creates customized solutions for each pair of eyes. To learn more about LASIK and other treatment options for astigmatism, contact our Canfield, Alliance, or North Canton office.

Posted in: Astigmatism