Astigmatism is common and affects about 1 in 3 people worldwide. However, if it is not treated, it can make tasks like reading and driving difficult. At Kyle J Schell OD Inc, in Victorville, CA, we provide comprehensive eye exams to diagnose astigmatism and treatment to help you see more clearly. To learn more about astigmatism, we invite you to keep reading!
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism occurs due to an abnormal curvature or shape of the eye. The refractive error can also happen if the cornea is misshaped or if the curve on the lens inside the eye is not curved properly. The eye should be like a completely round ball. If your eye is shaped like an egg, astigmatism can occur.
Your eyes also use light to see. As the light passes through your eye, it hits your retina, which is located at the back of your eye. If you have astigmatism, the improper shape of the lens causes light to improperly reflect onto your retina. Astigmatism can be present from birth, however, it can also happen as your eyes grow and develop or due to an eye or head injury.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
The most common symptom of astigmatism is blurry vision. Nearsightedness and farsightedness cause blurry vision at close or far distances. However, astigmatism causes blurry vision at both distances. You may also experience double vision, eye strain, poor night vison, and headaches. Our optometrist can offer treatment that can help reduce your symptoms.
Diagnosis
Our eye doctor will perform an eye exam to diagnose astigmatism. We may have you look through various types of lenses, read an eye chart, and use bright lights to look at your eye.
Treatment for Astigmatism
Astigmatism can be easily treated with corrective lenses or surgery. As a result, you will be able to achieve sharper vision and enjoy hobbies without being hindered.
Corrective Lenses
Our optometrist may recommend contact lenses or eyeglasses to treat astigmatism. The lenses will correct the refractive error and allow light to hit the retina properly, which will help you see more clearly. After an eye exam, our eye doctor will determine the lenses that would be best suited for your condition.
Refractive Surgery
Refractive surgery can also treat astigmatism. Since corrective lenses need to be worn every day, refractive surgery can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. LASIK is a common procedure used to correct refractive errors. During the procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision in the eye and use a laser to sculpt the cornea. Afterward, they will close the incision. Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and Laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) are also sometimes used to correct refractive errors.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If you have symptoms of astigmatism, our team at Kyle J Schell OD Inc in Victorville, CA, is happy to help. After an eye exam, we can provide the necessary treatment that can help you achieve a sharper vision. To schedule your appointment, contact us at (760) 241-1010 today!