Understanding Astigmatism: Answers to Common Questions

One of the most popular misconceptions about astigmatism is that it is an eye disease or eye health problem. It is actually a refractive error like nearsightedness and farsightedness. When a person has astigmatism, his vision might be blurry or distorted at any distance.

Astigmatism is a condition in which the eye does not focus light evenly onto the retina. An uneven or irregularly-shaped the cornea often causes this. Vienna Eyecare Center, the most trusted provider of eyeglasses and contact lenses in Tysons Corner, VA, provides some answers to common questions about this eye condition:

How Does Astigmatism Occur?

Astigmatism occurs when light bends differently, depending on where it strikes the cornea, and passes through the eyeball. Unlike its normal spherical shape, the cornea of a person with astigmatism has more of an oblong shape, causing light to bend and distort as it passes through the lens. As a result, the images appear blurry and stretched out.

Who is at Risk for Astigmatism?

This eye condition can affect both children and adults, though it often appears during childhood and can cause headaches and eye strain when left untreated. If you have slight astigmatism, there will be minimal change in your vision. In any case, it’s vital to have an annual eye exam in Reston, VA, to detect any astigmatism early on.

What are the Symptoms of Astigmatism?

Some of the most common signs of astigmatism are headaches, squinting, blurry vision, eye strain, and difficulty driving at night.

What is/are the Treatment/s for Astigmatism?

If you’ve been diagnosed with astigmatism after an eye exam, we offer three options for correcting the problem: wear eyeglasses, use contact lenses, or undergo refractive surgery. Contact lenses and corrective eyeglasses in Fairfax, VA, are both the simplest and safest way to have proper vision. However, some patients may not be able to wear contact lenses, so be sure to discuss this matter with our eye care specialists.

For over 30 years, Vienna Eyecare Center has been helping local patients improve their quality of life by taking care of their eyes and vision. Get in touch with us today to learn more about astigmatism and other eye conditions. To schedule a visit, you can call us at (703) 938-7633 or complete our contact form.