Astigmatism: What It Is and How You Might Notice It
Astigmatism can cause your vision to be blurry or out of focus, both at a distance and up close. It is a common refractive error, not a disease,and is usually corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses. You may notice it when reading, working on screens, or driving at night. An eye exam can help diagnose it.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or the lens has an irregular curvature.
Instead of focusing light on a single point, the eye focuses it unevenly. That’s why lines, letters, or outlines may appear blurry or slightly distorted at any distance.
A simple way to understand it: the curvature isn’t the same in all directions. Rather than a round ball, it resembles a rugby ball.
It isn’t a disease. It can also occur alongside nearsightedness or farsightedness.
How You Might Notice It
The signs of astigmatism aren't the same for everyone. Some of the most common ones are:
· Small letters appear blurry.
· Outlines seem slightly distorted.
· You squint to focus better. Lights appear with halos or glare when driving at night.
· You experience eye strain or headaches after reading or working on screens.
These symptoms may also have other causes. An eye exam can help determine what’s going on without jumping to conclusions.
At any of our Miller & Marc optical stores, you can have your prescription checked by a licensed optometrist.
How It Differs from Other Vision Problems
Astigmatism can affect both distance and near vision.
Myopia primarily affects distance vision. Hyperopia can make it difficult to focus, especially up close. Presbyopia develops with age and affects near vision.
In addition, astigmatism can occur in combination with myopia or hyperopia.
How We Screen for Myopia in-Store
At Miller & Marc, a licensed optometrist checks your prescription and assesses your vision.
The eye exam is free and requires no obligation. If you have astigmatism, we determine the correction you need and explain your options: prescription glasses, toric contact lenses, or a combination of both.
We don’t start with the frames. First, we determine what you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can astigmatism be cured?
Astigmatism does not go away with the use of glasses or contact lenses, but it can be corrected with either. Refractive surgery may be an option in some cases and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
How is astigmatism corrected?
It is typically corrected with prescription glasses or toric contact lenses. The right choice depends on your prescription, how you plan to use them, and what feels most comfortable for you.
At what age does it usually appear?
It may be present from childhood and be detected at any age. In many cases, it is identified during an eye exam.
Can I wear contact lenses if I have astigmatism?
Yes. There are toric contact lenses designed to correct astigmatism.
First, you need to have your prescription checked, have your eyes examined, and determine which type of lens is right for you. At Miller & Marc, we fit contact lenses by appointment.
Can myopia be prevented?
It cannot always be prevented. In children and adolescents, certain habits and treatments can help slow its progression, but these must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Does astigmatism get worse over time?
It usually remains stable throughout adulthood, although there may be changes in your prescription.
The appropriate frequency of checkups depends on your age, your prescription, and your medical history.
