Key Takeaways
- Astigmatism is a common refractive issue that can cause blurry vision.
- It can show up alongside nearsightedness or farsightedness.
- Squinting, headaches, and glare around headlights are common signs to watch for.
- Glasses, toric contacts, and laser procedures can help correct it.
- A regular eye exam helps track changes in your prescription.
Maybe you squint at a menu, tilt your head to read a sign, or notice streaky halos around headlights on the drive home. At Southwood Eyecare, our team hears these stories from many Calgary families, and astigmatism is often part of the picture.
Astigmatism is a common eye issue that leads to blurry vision at different distances, and glasses, contacts, or surgery can help correct it. Your eye doctor can detect astigmatism during a comprehensive eye exam and can walk you through your next steps.
An Overview of Astigmatism
Astigmatism happens when the clear front surface of the eye, called the cornea, is shaped a little irregularly. A normal cornea is shaped like a basketball, but with astigmatism, it’s shaped more like a football.
This means that light doesn’t focus on one spot on your retina at the back of your eye. Instead, it focuses on many points, leaving things looking blurry at any distance. It can occur alongside nearsightedness or farsightedness and affect people of all ages.
What Are the Signs of Astigmatism?
First Signs to Watch For
These signs, though associated with astigmatism, can also indicate other refractive errors, like myopia or hyperopia. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to book an eye exam to have your vision assessed:
- Blurry vision at all distances
- Needing to squint or tilt your head to see better
- Persistent headaches or tired eyes
- Halos around car headlights or persistent glare
Signs in Kids
Children don’t always say their vision is off because they think everyone sees the world the way they do. If you see your child doing any of the following, it may be time for a children’s eye exam:
- Trouble with reading either nearby or far away
- Rubbing their eyes often or complaining of headaches
- Squinting to see
What Causes Astigmatism?
Astigmatism often runs in families, but that isn’t the only cause. Astigmatism can be present from birth or develop later in life. In some cases, it’s linked to an eye injury or keratoconus, which is why an eye exam is an important step in understanding what’s going on and how you can get back to seeing clearly.
How Do You Correct Astigmatism?
Glasses and Contact Lenses
Astigmatism can be corrected with prescription eyewear. Our Calgary optometrist can help you find stylish, modern frames that fit your face and your routine. Our team can also fit you for contact lenses that are designed for your eyes and lifestyle.
Surgery Options
Some adults consider laser procedures like LASIK or PRK. Whether they suit you depends on a few factors, including your eye health and your prescription, which your eye doctor can assess during an eye surgery consultation.
Can Astigmatism Go Away?
Astigmatism doesn’t go away on its own. Correction, however, can help you see more clearly day to day, whether you’re reading a text or spotting a street sign.
Book Your Eye Exam
Regular eye exams matter for kids and adults alike. They help track changes in your prescription over time, so your glasses or contacts keep up with your eyes. If you’ve been noticing changes in your vision, we encourage you to book an appointment with Southwood Eyecare today and let the team help you and your family with your visual needs.
