Have you ever looked at something and notice it looked blurry or stretched out? You might have a common eye condition called astigmatism. Don’t worry – many people have it and it can be treated easily. Take a look at the following information to learn a little more about the causes, symptoms and treatment for astigmatism.

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism happens when the front part of your eye, called the cornea, or the lens inside your eye isn’t perfectly round. Instead of being shaped like a basketball, it’s more like a football. This shape makes light bend the wrong way when it enters your eye, causing blurry or fuzzy vision. 

What causes it?

Many people have astigmatism, but there isn’t always a direct cause. Most people are born with astigmatism. It can also happen after an eye injury, surgery or disease. Sometimes it runs in families. That means if your parents or grandparents have it, you might too.

Common symptoms and signs

You might not even know you have astigmatism. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Blurry or distorted vision
• Headaches
• Eye strain or tired eyes
• Squinting a lot
• Trouble seeing at night

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to get your eyes checked. It may be astigmatism or another optical disease. Be sure to check with your doctor before pursuing any kind of treatment.

How is it diagnosed?

An eye doctor can find astigmatism during a regular eye exam. They’ll use special tools to check how your eyes focus light. It’s quick and doesn’t hurt at all. Your doctor can talk you through the process. The Mayo Clinic recommends regular eye exams to catch astigmatism and keep your vision clear. They also stress the importance of choosing the right treatment for your lifestyle. 

How can it be fixed?

The good new is that astigmatism is easy to treat and manage with proper instruction. Here are some ways that you and your doctor can combat astigmatism:

• Glasses: These help bend the light correctly in your eyes.
• Contact Lenses: Special lenses can help focus the light better. The Mayo Clinic recommends that wearing contacts for too long can raise the risk of eye infections, so always follow your doctor’s advice.
• Surgery: Some people choose laser surgery to reshape the cornea. There are different types. You doctor will know which one, if any, is right for you.

Visit Clinicas

Even if you don’t have symptoms, it is important to get regular eye checkups. Kids especially need their eyes checked often because they might not know their vision is blurry. Take care of your eyes, they help you see and explore the world. If you or your child is having trouble seeing clearly, make an appointment with Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. today. We can help you with astigmatism and any other optical problem you may have. Our Vision Care Services team can guide you through lenses, contacts or eye exams as needed. Book an appointment today.