Astigmatism
An irregularly shaped cornea or lens causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
.png)
Symptoms
Common signs to watch for.
- Blurry or distorted vision at any distance
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Headaches
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Squinting to focus
Home Care Tips
Things you can do at home to relieve symptoms.
- Wear corrective lenses (glasses or toric contacts) as prescribed
- Use adequate lighting for reading and tasks
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain
- Attend regular eye exams to monitor changes
When to Seek Professional Help
Contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Vision changes noticeably between check-ups
- You experience persistent headaches
- Glasses no longer provide clear vision
- You notice double vision
About Astigmatism
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregular curvature of the eye's optical components—most often the cornea, and less frequently the internal lens. In a standard eye, the cornea possesses a smooth, spherical shape resembling a soccer ball. In an eye with astigmatism, the cornea curves more along one meridian than another, resembling the oval surface of a rugby ball.
Because light enters the eye and bends unevenly across different axes, it focuses at multiple separate focal points in front of or behind the retina rather than focusing onto a single sharp point. This optical distortion causes blurriness, ghosting, and distorted vision at all focal distances—near, intermediate, and far.
Common Optical Characteristics
- Blurry or stretched visual distortion at both distance and reading ranges
- Eyestrain and frontal headaches following prolonged visual concentration
- Halos, glare, and starbursts around light sources during nighttime driving
- Compensatory squinting to clear up distorted edges
Sources & Medical References
Book an Appointment
If you're experiencing symptoms, our specialists can help. Schedule a visit today.
Book Appointment