Astigmatism is an eye condition characterized by blurry vision, eye strain, and headaches. When patients have astigmatism, the cornea is oval-shaped instead of round. The cornea leads the rays of light into the eye, focusing them onto the retina.
 

When the cornea surface is oval, light rays do not focus correctly. Corrective eye lenses or eye surgery can help to correct the problem. Find out what you should avoid if you have astigmatism.
 

What Causes Astigmatism

When an individual has astigmatism, the light entering the eye is more bent than normal. The light fails to focus properly, causing objects they are viewing to look wavy or blurry. The condition can affect vision at any distance and lead to eye strain.
 

Anyone can get astigmatism. While some people are born with it, others develop it in adulthood. Astigmatism is often hereditary but can also be caused by eyelids putting excessive pressure on the cornea. Other issues that cause astigmatism include keratoconus, eye injuries, and eye surgery complications.
 

Symptoms of Astigmatism

Astigmatism can make it difficult to see near and far objects as they appear blurry. Other symptoms of the condition include:

• Glare.
• Fatigue.
• Seeing halos around lights.
• Squinting to clear vision.

Symptoms are most noticeable when you look at lights, during the night, and when it is raining.
 

Diagnosing Astigmatism

An eye exam will help to determine if you have astigmatism. Eye care specialists conduct several tests to diagnose astigmatism. They examine the inner eye and take measurements.
 

The tests include visual acuity tests, refraction tests, slit lamp exam, keratometry, and corneal topography. If you have a small degree of astigmatism, you may not require corrective measures. However, the condition may worsen over time.
 

Treatment for Astigmatism

If the condition is mild, it may not affect vision. However, if the vision changes in the future, corrective lenses will help. Lenses correct vision, but they do not change the eye shape. Surgical procedures such as LASIK eye surgery and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) can help to fix vision issues. Toric lenses are special contact lenses that are very effective for treating astigmatism.
 

Things to Avoid If You Have Astigmatism

If you have astigmatism, there are things you can do to avoid discomfort, such as:

• Avoid digital habits that strain your eyes. Use good lighting for reading or working, and take frequent breaks when using digital devices. Adjust your computer print size and use features to avoid screen glare.
• Avoid skipping eye exams. Keeping healthy eyes will help to prevent the worsening of your symptoms. Your eye doctor will recommend the best management option for your condition.
• Avoid sun exposure. Wear UV-protective sunglasses while outdoors. They help to prevent sunlight rays that are harmful.
• Do not ignore vision changes. Watch for changes in your vision and eye health, and contact your eye doctor if you experience new symptoms.

If you have astigmatism, follow your eye doctor’s instructions and keep your appointments.
 

Astigmatism is a relatively common condition, which can make it difficult to participate in daily activities. Fortunately, vision correction lenses and surgery are effective for treating the condition.
 

For more on what you should avoid if you have astigmatism, visit Ishigo Optometry. Our office is in Gardena, California. Call (888) 564-0016 to book an appointment today.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8576-astigmatism