What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common vision problem usually related to the shape of the cornea. Instead of being evenly curved like a football, it has a more oval, rugby-ball shape. This changes how light enters the eye, preventing it from focusing at a single point on the retina and causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
When does it occur?
Astigmatism is often present from birth but can develop at any point in life. It may also occur after an eye injury or eye surgery.
Particular attention is needed in childhood, as a high degree of astigmatism may contribute to amblyopia.
Astigmatism often occurs together with myopia or hyperopia.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include blurred or distorted vision at near and far distances, eye fatigue when reading, headaches and squinting in an effort to see more clearly.
At night, people may notice halos around lights, which can make driving in the dark more difficult.
How is it managed?
Astigmatism can be corrected with glasses or specially designed toric (astigmatism) contact lenses that provide clear vision.
The prescription includes lens power in dioptres as well as cylinder and axis values.
Different hydrogel and silicone hydrogel options are available, including monthly and annual designs. Stability throughout wear is a key feature.
Ask your lens fitter or optometrist which option best suits your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions: Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a refractive error usually associated with a difference in the curvature of the cornea or lens, causing image distortion.
Blurred or distorted vision at different distances, fatigue, headache and difficulty with night vision are common symptoms.
Yes. Toric lenses have a special design and axis for correcting astigmatism and require an accurate fitting.
Not necessarily. The lens prescription includes fit, curvature, diameter and an assessment of axis stability on the eye.
Arrange a review if visual clarity changes, headaches become frequent or toric lenses do not remain stable and comfortable.
