Astigmatism Symptoms And Causes: A Simple Guide

Astigmatism is a type of refractive imperfection in which the eye does not focus light evenly on the retina, resulting in blurred vision. 

Most people have a degree of astigmatism, but it is usually not severe enough to cause problems with vision. However, when astigmatism is more powerful, it can make everyday activities such as reading and driving difficult. Correcting astigmatism can be done with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

 

Read on to learn about the following: 

 

  • Symptoms Associated with Astigmatism 
  • When to Consult a Healthcare Provider 
  • Causes of Astigmatism 
  • Experts to Support You

Symptoms Associated with Astigmatism 

A few key symptoms of astigmatism can help you determine if you may be suffering from this vision problem:

  1. Blurry or fuzzy vision is a common symptom, as astigmatism can cause objects to appear out of focus.
  2. Eye fatigue or headaches after extended periods of reading or working on the computer may indicate astigmatism.
  3. Difficulty seeing at night can be a symptom, as astigmatism can make it difficult to focus on objects in low light.

If you become aware of any of these symptoms, you must see an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam. You can manage astigmatism and improve your vision with proper diagnosis and treatment.

Learn The Causes of Astigmatism

There are some different causes of astigmatism. One is an irregular shape on the front surface of your eye called the cornea, and the other is the position of your eyes.

If you have an irregularly shaped cornea, light rays entering your eye will be refracted (or bent) at different points on the cornea. This will cause your vision to be blurred.

If your eyes are not in the correct position with each other, this can also cause astigmatism. Having your eyes focus on different points will cause different refracted light rays. This type of astigmatism is called axial or refractive astigmatism. You will need an astigmatism diagnosis in order to learn about the proper treatments.

If You Have Astigmatism, When Should You Consult a Healthcare Provider? 

If you have astigmatism, you may also be at risk for developing other eye problems, such as glaucoma or cataracts. It is vital to have regular eye exams so that your healthcare provider can check for these conditions. Treatment for astigmatism can help improve your vision and reduce your risk of developing other eye problems. 

Expert Eye Doctors That Can Help You With Astigmatism 

Welcome to Nicholas Rutkowski OD & Associates. We’re a team of expert eye care specialists dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care. Looking for an eye doctor in Bourbonnais? We offer comprehensive eye examinations from contact lens fittings to LASIK surgery. 

We believe everyone deserves to have healthy and beautiful eyes, and are committed to helping our patients achieve this. If you’re looking for an eye care team that you can trust, look no further than Nicholas Rutkowski OD & Associates. We’re ready to serve you and provide the best possible care. For advanced eye care in Bourbonnais, consult the experts. Thank you for choosing us!

Emergency Eye Care: When to Seek Immediate Help

When it comes to our health, certain situations require immediate attention. One area often overlooked is emergency eye care. Knowing when to seek immediate help can make all the difference in preventing long-term damage, whether it's an injury, sudden vision changes,...

How OptiLight By Lumenis Can Help Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye is a common disease that affects many individuals, particularly those aged 60 and above. It causes discomfort and irritation and even affects daily activities such as reading or driving. If you've experienced the frustrations of dry, itchy, and irritated eyes,...

UV For Your Eyes: Why It’s Essential All Year Round

Our eyes are precious, yet often overlooked when it comes to sun protection. Many of us are aware of the risks UV rays pose to our skin, but we may not realize the potential harm they can cause our eyes. Regardless of the season, UV rays can damage our vision. ...

Glaucoma 101: How To Prevent Permanent Vision Loss Before It’s Too Late

Glaucoma is among the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. This condition typically creeps up unnoticed, gradually stealing your vision without showing symptoms until it's too late. As we shed light on this vision-threatening disease, we aim to raise...

Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, and Modern Treatment Techniques

Imagine looking through a foggy window, struggling to see the world. This is what life can look like for those living with cataracts. Cataracts are incredibly prevalent, affecting millions of people worldwide. They significantly impact vision, making everyday tasks...

Discover LASIK Eye Surgery: A Reliable Way To Improve Your Vision

Are you tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses to see clearly? You're not alone. Millions of people worldwide experience some form of vision impairment, and the need for corrective eyewear can be a hassle. Fortunately, with the advent of LASIK surgery, this is...

Effective Treatments For Your Red Eyes: How To Prevent And Treat It

Red eyes can be frustrating and uncomfortable, affecting individuals of all ages. Whether caused by allergies, dryness, or eye strain, it can impact daily life and cause discomfort. Not only can red eyes be unsightly, but they can also be a sign of underlying health...

How To Find The Perfect Sunglasses For Your Eye Health This Summer

Sunglasses aren't just a fashion accessory but also an essential tool for protecting your eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Whether you're soaking up the sun on a beach vacation, taking a stroll in the park, or simply running errands outdoors, choosing the ideal pair...

How To Choose The Right Contact Lenses For Your Summer Activities

Summer is here, and for contact lens wearers, it's time to consider whether their current lenses are up to the task of keeping up with their active outdoor lifestyles. Whether you're lounging on the beach, hiking through the mountains, or playing sports in the park,...

Understanding Astigmatism: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

When it comes to our eyesight, even the slightest visual disturbance can significantly impact our daily lives. One common condition that affects millions of people worldwide is astigmatism. This refractive error occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is irregularly...