What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common eye disorder that occurs when the cornea or eye lens is curved incorrectly or wrongly shaped. When either of these malformations occurs, light is unable to focus properly on the retina. This inability to focus light results in blurry vision.

Symptoms

• Having an astigmatism may result in blurred vision, headaches and eye strain discomfort.

Related Eye Conditions

• Often times, an astigmatism accompanies myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness).

Causes

• It is unknown what causes an astigmatism; however, it could be hereditary. Generally, an astigmatism is present at birth, but it may improve or worsen over time.

Diagnosis

• An astigmatism can be seen by a doctor performing an exam of a dilated eye.

Correction

• Eye glasses or contacts can be prescribed to correct the blurriness caused by an astigmatism. Laser surgery may also correct an astigmatism.