If you recently got an eye exam and were diagnosed with astigmatism, you may wonder what it means. Astigmatism is a condition in which your eyeball isn’t completely round. The cornea or the lens in the clear, front part of the eye is shaped like a football rather than a marble. The shape of your eye affects how light is perceived, causing objects to appear blurry or wavy. It is common for people with nearsightedness or farsightedness also to have astigmatism. The following guide explores this condition and what can be done to treat it.  

Causes 

While most people with astigmatism are simply born with the condition, others can develop it after an injury, eye disease, or surgery. Astigmatism can also arise from extensive time spent reading in low light or sitting too close to the TV. There are no known ways to prevent astigmatism, but it is important to take good care of your eye health to avoid eye disease and other vision problems.

Signs and Symptoms

While blurry vision is the most common sign of astigmatism, blurriness can also be attributed to other vision problems. However, astigmatism is more likely the problem if your vision is blurry at all distances, and you can't see up close or far away. Astigmatism can also cause frequent headaches, fatigue, and eye strain. 

Diagnosis and Treatment

Any time you notice changes in your vision, visit your optometrist for an eye exam to determine if you are developing astigmatism. The doctor will ask you to read an eye chart, and they will use other tools to measure your eyes. If you have astigmatism, the doctor will offer options to correct the condition and ensure you can see well. In most cases, glasses or contacts can correct a patient’s vision. However, if you only have a mild case of astigmatism and no other problems, you may not even require vision correction.

If you suspect that you may have astigmatism or another vision problem, reach out to Eyewear Express in Rhinelander, WI. This optometrist can provide an eye exam and, if necessary, eyewear or contact lenses to correct your vision. You can trust this team to go above and beyond during your appointment to ensure you get the treatment you need for the best vision possible. Call (715) 365-1515 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.