Astigmatism is an imperfection in the curvature of your eye’s cornea and/or lens. The curvature of the cornea and/or lens is irregular resulting in blurred and/or distorted vision for near and far distances. Normally, the cornea and lens are smooth and curved equally in all directions. This helps to focus light onto the retina at the back of your eye. If your cornea or lens isn't smooth and evenly curved, light rays aren't refracted (bent) properly.  Astigmatism is very common and Doctors don't know why corneal shape differs from person to person. They do know that likelihood of developing astigmatism is inherited.

When your cornea has an irregular shape (shaped like a rugby or football cut in half rather than a soccer ball cut in half therefore not a perfect semi-circle), you have corneal astigmatism. When the shape of your lens is distorted, you have lenticular astigmatism. In both situations vision for both near and far objects are blurry or distorted.

Adults with significant astigmatism may realize their vision isn't as good as it should be. Children with astigmatism symptoms may not be aware they have this condition. They are unlikely to complain about blurred or distorted vision.

Uncorrected astigmatism can impact a child's ability to achieve in school and sports. It is critical that children have regular eye exams. Get these exams to detect astigmatism and other vision problems as early as possible.

It is a myth that astigmatism can develop or worsen from reading in low light or sitting very close to the television.

Astigmatism symptoms may include:

• Blurry vision or areas of distorted vision
• Eyestrain
• Headaches
• Squinting to try to see clearly, or
• Eye discomfort

Astigmatism Diagnosis:

Your eye doctor will test you for astigmatism as part of your comprehensive eye exam and we are able to provide this at AEC.

Astigmatism Treatment:

Mild to moderate astigmatism with glasses or contact lenses

Surgery, including LASIK, may be an option for some people with astigmatism.

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