When the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye containing the iris and pupil, is not formed correctly or curved irregularly, the condition is known as astigmatism. Common results include blurred vision at various differences, as light passing through the cornea is refracted and deflected at odd angles. It is not uncommon for nearly everyone to have some form of astigmatism, although for some it becomes a major vision issue. Common factors that lead to astigmatism are genetic predisposition, irregular eye development during adolescence and the teenage years, and even by the pressure of the eyelids against the cornea.
Astigmatism can be detected and diagnosed during a comprehensive yearly eye exam with your Vision Care Centre optometrist. A common symptom that is worth mentioning to your eye doctors is if you are having trouble focusing at certain distances both near and far, but are able to focus at others without issue. Also, irregular eye strain or fatigue can be symptomatic of astigmatism.
Treatment options are corrective eyeglasses, contact lenses, Neuro Visual Training, and laser eye surgery.
