The eye is a complex organ carefully designed to transmit images to the brain. When blurriness and other vision issues become more frequent, you may be dealing with a condition called astigmatism. While extremely common, it does require prescription glasses or contact lenses to correct. Here are common answers to questions about this eye health problem.

Questions About Astigmatism, Answered

What is astigmatism?

In a healthy eye, light passes through the outer cornea, is focused through the lens, and then reaches the retina, where it can be transmitted to the brain. When the cornea is abnormally curved, called astigmatism, it interferes with how light enters the eye, resulting in blurriness.

What are the symptoms?

The refracted light that enters the eye will cause a slight blurring or distortion of vision in people with astigmatism. When driving at night, lights may appear blurry, resulting in headaches and eye irritation. Hereditary factors can cause astigmatism, but your eyelids can also distort your eyes if they press too hard. Eye injuries may also contribute to astigmatism.

How is it different from near- and farsightedness?

Near- and farsightedness are other common eye care issues related to distance. Whereas astigmatism is related to light distortion, these two conditions affect how well the eyes can focus on objects close up or far away. Astigmatism can also affect either of those conditions, making it a more complex issue.

How is it treated?

Depending on how misshapen your cornea is, your optometrist will recommend prescription contact lenses or glasses with the correct power to counteract the curvature. After a week or so, you should be able to see clearly again thanks to the prescription lenses. Speak with an optometrist about a vision test. They can examine the eye to diagnose astigmatism and then determine what type of prescription glasses you need.

Whether you’re concerned about glaucoma, astigmatism, or are just due for an eye exam, book an appointment with the Optometrists located at Pal Optical. This company as well as the eye doctors' office have welcomed patients for over 50 years.  Pal Optical  also offers over 1,500 prescription glasses frame options, as well as sunglasses. Call (859) 269-6921 or 859-266-3003 to schedule an appointment. Visit their website to learn more about the optometrists. Discover more insights and eye care tips on their Facebook page.