Astigmatism is a common eye condition that affects the way light enters the eye. It causes blurred or distorted vision at various distances.

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the front surface of the eye) or the lens (inside the eye) has an irregular shape. Instead of a round shape, it becomes more oval or rugby ball-shaped. This irregularity prevents the light from focusing properly on the retina, resulting in blurred vision.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

Astigmatism can cause a range of symptoms such as:.

Blurred or distorted vision at any distance
Difficulty seeing fine details
Eyestrain and fatigue
Headaches
Squinting or tilting the head to see clearly

Test Yourself for Astigmatism in 5 Seconds

While visiting an eye care professional is the best way to determine if you have astigmatism, here’s a quick self-test you can do in just 5 seconds:.

Find a well-lit room and sit comfortably in front of a wall or any horizontal lines.
Take off your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them.
Close one eye and focus on the lines. Do the lines appear clear and sharp, or do they seem blurry or distorted?
Repeat the test with the other eye.
If you notice any blurring or distortion in the lines, it’s possible that you have astigmatism. However, it’s important to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive examination and accurate diagnosis.

Types of Astigmatism

There are three main types of astigmatism:.

Myopic Astigmatism – This occurs when one or both principal meridians of the eye are nearsighted.
Hyperopic Astigmatism – This occurs when one or both principal meridians of the eye are farsighted.
Mixed Astigmatism – This occurs when one principal meridian is nearsighted, and the other is farsighted.

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

If you’ve been diagnosed with astigmatism, there are several treatment options available:.

Eyeglasses – Prescription glasses can help compensate for the irregularity in your cornea or lens, providing clear vision.
Contact lenses – Toric contact lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism. They are available in various types such as daily disposable, monthly, or rigid gas permeable lenses.
Orthokeratology – This involves using rigid gas permeable contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea and provide clear vision during the day.
Refractive surgery – Procedures like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea permanently to provide clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

When to See an Eye Care Professional

If you suspect you have astigmatism based on the self-test or experience any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional.

They can perform a comprehensive eye examination to diagnose and prescribe the most suitable treatment for your astigmatism.