Astigmatism is a common vision condition causing blurred vision. It happens when the cornea, the clear front cover of the eye, is not regularly shaped or because of the curvature of the lens inside the eye.
Astigmatism prevents light from properly focusing on the retina. The curvature of the lens inside the eyes can potentially change over time and, as a result, having an increase or decrease in Astigmatism. This change occurs very often in adults.
This vision condition comes with other conditions such as myopia and hyperopia. These conditions together can affect the eye in a really negative way.
Causes and Risk Factors Of Astigmatism
Astigmatism has diverse causes and risk factors such as:
- Hereditary and present from birth.
- It could develop following eye surgery or injury.
- It can occur due to a rare condition called keratoconus, in which the cornea becomes progressively thinner and cone-shaped.
- It can decrease or increase over time.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
- Blurred vision at any distance.
- Eye discomfort.
- Headaches.
- Difficulty with night vision.
- Squinting.
Diagnosis of Astigmatism
A doctor can diagnose Astigmatism through a comprehensive eye examination. This test measures the eye focus light and determines the power of an optical lens to improve your vision.
This test includes:
- Visual Acuity
When reading letters on a distance chart, you measure your visual acuity. This is given as a fraction. The top number indicates the testing distance, and the bottom number is the smallest letter size read. A normal visual acuity is 20/20.
- Topography or Keratometry
This is the main instrument used to measure the cornea´s curvature. A way to determine the precise curvature of the cornea´s surface area is by focusing a circle of light on the cornea and measuring the reflection. This method is particularly useful to determine the proper fit to contact lenses.
A corneal topographer generates a contour map of the cornea providing even more detail of the cornea´s shape.
- Refraction
Using a phoropter, the doctor places a series of lenses in front of your eyes and measures the way they focus light. Depending on how you respond, the power is refined to determine the lenses that work best for you.
Treatment for Astigmatism
There are multiple ways to treat this eye condition; some of them are:
- Eyeglasses
- Contact Lenses
- Laser and Surgery Procedures
- Orthokeratology
Montecito Optometry, A Place To Trust
If you find yourself looking for an optometrist in Montecito, Montecito Optometry offers eye care services in Montecito, CA. Suppose you feel like you could be someone with Astigmatism, and you live in the Montecito, CA, area. In that case, you should visit Montecito Optometry Clinic to receive Comprehensive Eye Exams.
This exam will assess your risk for potentially damaging eye conditions as well as keeping on top of any changes in your vision. Call us today and make an appointment.