Astigmatism is one of the most common vision conditions in the world, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood. Many patients hear the word during an eye exam and immediately have questions. Is something wrong with my eyes? Will it get worse over time? Can it be corrected?
One of the best ways to learn about astigmatism is to ask your local eye doctor in the Bay Area understand astigmatism in a clear and practical way. This guide is written for everyday people who want straightforward answers without medical jargon.
What Is Astigmatism in Simple Terms
Astigmatism is a common refractive error. A refractive error means the eye does not focus light properly. In a normally shaped eye, the cornea and lens are evenly curved, allowing light to focus directly on the retina.
With astigmatism, the eye has an uneven curve. Instead of being round like a basketball, the eye is shaped more like a football. Because of this shape, light enters the eye at different angles and focuses on more than one point. This causes blurred or distorted vision at both near and far distances.
Astigmatism is an eye disease. But it does not mean your eyes are unhealthy. It simply means your eyes focus light differently than average.
Common Symptoms of Astigmatism
Many people have astigmatism and do not realize it right away. Symptoms often develop slowly and may be mistaken for eye strain or fatigue. Common astigmatism symptoms include:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night
- Eye strain or tired eyes
- Frequent headaches
- Squinting to see more clearly
- Trouble focusing on screens or printed text
If you notice any of these symptoms, a comprehensive eye exam is the best way to determine whether astigmatism is the cause.
What Causes Astigmatism
Astigmatism is usually present from birth and often runs in families. It is caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or, less commonly, the lens inside the eye.
Other possible causes include eye injuries, eye surgery, or certain conditions that affect the cornea.
There are many myths about what causes astigmatism. Reading in dim light, using digital screens, or sitting too close to the television do not cause astigmatism. However, prolonged screen use can make symptoms feel more noticeable.
Types of Astigmatism
Understanding the type of astigmatism you have helps your optometrist provide the most accurate correction.
Corneal Astigmatism
This occurs when the cornea has an uneven curvature. It is the most common type of astigmatism.
Lenticular Astigmatism
This occurs when the lens inside the eye is irregularly shaped.
Regular and Irregular Astigmatism
Regular astigmatism follows predictable patterns and is easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses. Irregular astigmatism is less common and may require specialty contact lenses for clear vision.
How Astigmatism Affects Vision
Astigmatism often occurs alongside nearsightedness or farsightedness. This combination can cause vision to feel inconsistent. Some patients see better at certain distances while struggling at others.
People with astigmatism may notice that letters look shadowed or doubled, lights appear streaky at night, or fine details are difficult to see. Because these symptoms overlap with other vision problems, a professional eye exam is essential for proper diagnosis.
How It Is Diagnosed
Astigmatism is diagnosed during a routine eye exam. Eye doctors use advanced diagnostic technology to measure how light travels through your eyes and to evaluate the shape of your cornea.
An eye exam for astigmatism may include visual acuity testing, refraction testing, corneal mapping, and digital retinal imaging. These tests are painless and provide valuable information about your vision and overall eye health.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse Over Time
Astigmatism can change gradually, especially during childhood and early adulthood. For many adults, astigmatism remains stable for years.
Even small changes can affect visual comfort, especially for patients who spend long hours using computers or digital devices. Regular eye exams help ensure your prescription stays accurate and your eyes remain healthy.
How It Is Treated
Astigmatism is very treatable, and most patients achieve excellent vision with proper correction.
Glasses for Astigmatism
Prescription glasses are the most common treatment. Specially designed lenses compensate for the uneven curvature of the eye and help light focus properly on the retina.
Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Toric contact lenses are designed specifically for astigmatism. Dr. Asslani has extensive experience fitting contact lenses that provide clear vision, stability, and long term comfort.
Specialty Contact Lenses
For patients with higher or irregular astigmatism, specialty contact lenses such as rigid gas permeable or scleral lenses may be recommended.
Vision Correction Surgery
Some patients with astigmatism may be candidates for laser vision correction. A comprehensive eye exam is the first step in determining whether this option is appropriate.
Astigmatism in Children
Astigmatism is common in children and can affect learning and development if left uncorrected. Children may not realize their vision is blurry, so symptoms are often behavioral rather than verbal.
Signs of astigmatism in children may include difficulty reading, poor concentration, frequent eye rubbing, squinting, or tilting the head. Early eye exams are essential to support healthy visual development and academic success.
Common Myths About Astigmatism
Many misconceptions exist about astigmatism.
Astigmatism does not mean your vision is permanently poor. With proper correction, most patients see clearly and comfortably. It is extremely common and affects people of all ages. Astigmatism cannot be prevented, but it can be effectively managed with regular eye care.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
Even if you already wear glasses or contact lenses, regular eye exams are important. Prescriptions can change gradually, and outdated prescriptions often lead to headaches, eye strain, and fatigue.
Optometrist focuses on thorough eye exams that evaluate both vision clarity and overall eye health. Early detection of vision changes allows for better long-term outcomes.
Schedule an Eye Exam with Dr. Atean Asslani
If you think you may have astigmatism or if it has been a while since your last eye exam, now is a great time to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Atean Asslani provides comprehensive eye exams at Optical Illusions: An Optometric Practice, serving patients in San Jose, San Mateo, and San Ramon. Optical Illusions is known for advanced diagnostic technology, thorough exams, and a friendly patient centered approach.
Clear vision starts with expert care. Schedule your appointment at 1 of our 4 conveniently located offices in San Jose, San Mateo, San Ramon, and Juneau.
