Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea (or, less commonly, the lens). In a normal eye, the cornea has a spherical shape like a ping pong ball. In astigmatism, it’s more like a rugby ball, causing light to focus on multiple points and resulting in blurred or distorted vision, both at near and far distances.
The cause is often genetic and may be present from birth, potentially worsening with growth. It can also result from eye injuries, corneal diseases like keratoconus, or after ocular surgery. It is not caused by visual habits or excessive screen use.
Corrective options:
- Glasses with astigmatism-specific lenses
- Toric contact lenses, designed for astigmatism
- Refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK) to reshape the cornea
- Toric intraocular lenses during cataract surgery
- Phakic toric IOLs for non-cataract patients
The best treatment depends on the type and degree of astigmatism, age, ocular health, and patient needs. A thorough eye exam is essential to tailor the best option.