Let’s Talk About Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common eye condition that affects the shape of the eye's cornea or lens. The primary problem with astigmatism is that it causes people to see two different images in their eyes, which the brain interprets as blurry vision or glare. These symptoms often worsen at night, when the pupil of the eye enlarges and lets more light in. The result is that people need to squint to try and make things look clearer.
Astigmatism can be managed through corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) or surgery. But it's important to understand the different facets of this condition to make an informed decision about your treatment plan. Here are five facts about astigmatism that you should know.
The Cornea Is Responsible for Vision Clarity
The cornea is a transparent, dome-shaped structure on the front of the eye that helps to focus light onto the retina and provide clear vision. However, when astigmatism occurs, the shape of the cornea becomes distorted, which can lead to blurry vision. This is because light entering the eye isn't focused correctly onto the retina.
Astigmatism Can Affect Both Children and Adults
Astigmatism can affect people of any age—from infants who are born with it to adults who develop it over time—though it most commonly appears in childhood. In fact, according to one study, more than half of children have some degree of astigmatism by age 8. If untreated, astigmatism can worsen over time and lead to visual discomfort and headaches.
Astigmatism Can Be Corrected With Contact Lenses, Eyeglasses and Laser Eye Surgery.
The most common way to treat astigmatism is with corrective lenses—contact lenses or eyeglasses—which help refocus light entering the eyes for clearer vision. Some people with mild astigmatism may not need corrective lenses full-time and may only wear them for night driving and reading. In contrast, those with more severe cases may require them for everyday activities. Laser surgery can also correct mild to moderate levels of astigmatism if people would rather not wear glasses or contacts.
Multiple Factors Contribute To Astigmatism Development
While astigmatism often runs in families—meaning that if one parent has it, their child is likely to have it too—there are other factors at play regarding its development. For example, injury or trauma to the eye area can cause astigmatism; certain medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure; and even prolonged exposure to computers and digital devices have all been linked with higher rates of developing astigmatism. Therefore, it's important to discuss your concerns about developing astigmatism with your optometrist so they can advise you on steps you can take for prevention or treatment if necessary.
Astigmatism Glasses & Contacts In Edmonton
Astigmatism is a very common eye condition affecting how light enters your eyes and causes blurred vision. While many factors contribute towards its development, such as genetics, ocular injuries or surgeries and digital device use, luckily, there are also several ways you can manage its symptoms through corrective lenses or surgery.
At Helio Optometry, our eye doctors can help you refine your eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions and recommend and refer you for various refractive surgery procedures. Stop by our new flagship location in West Edmonton on 149th Street and 95th Avenue in the new ONE-FOUR-NINE development.
