Astigmatism is a common refractive error that can affect how clearly you see objects at all distances. The condition occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina.
While astigmatism doesn’t always mean that you need glasses, corrective lenses are one of the most effective and convenient ways to manage the condition. At The Eye Care Team, our experienced optometrists in Spokane and Chewelah provide personalized care to help you achieve your clearest vision.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Instead of being perfectly round like a basketball, the cornea of a person with astigmatism may have an oval shape, more like a football. This irregular curvature causes light to focus unevenly on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.
Key symptoms of astigmatism include:
- Blurred or distorted vision at all distances
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Headaches
- Difficulty seeing at night
Astigmatism can occur on its own or alongside other refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). Regular eye exams are essential for detecting astigmatism and determining the best way to correct it.
How Is Astigmatism Diagnosed?
Astigmatism can also impact depth perception, making tasks like driving or judging distances more challenging. Understanding how astigmatism is measured is key to managing the condition effectively.
During a routine eye exam, your optometrist will perform several tests to evaluate your vision and the shape of your cornea. These may include:
- Visual Acuity Test: Determines how well you see letters or symbols on a chart.
- Keratometry: Measures the curvature of your cornea.
- Refraction Test: Identifies the precise prescription needed to correct your vision.
Our teams in Spokane and Chewelah use modern diagnostic technology to ensure accurate results. If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, don’t hesitate to book an appointment at our Spokane or Chewelah locations.
Does Astigmatism Always Require Glasses?
Not all cases of astigmatism require corrective lenses. Mild astigmatism may not significantly affect your vision, and some people can manage without glasses or contact lenses. However, for moderate to severe astigmatism, glasses or contacts are often recommended to correct the distortion and provide clear vision.
How Glasses Correct Astigmatism
Glasses for astigmatism use special lenses designed to compensate for the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens. These lenses ensure that light focuses evenly on the retina, reducing blurriness and improving visual clarity. Glasses are a simple, effective, and non-invasive way to manage astigmatism for both children and adults.
Other Treatment Options for Astigmatism
For individuals with astigmatism who prefer contact lenses, options include toric lenses, which are designed to correct the irregular curvature of the eye. Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses and hybrid lenses are also potential options. Your optometrist will help determine the best lens type for your needs.
Refractive Surgery is also a possibility for some people.. Procedures like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism permanently. These options are typically suitable for adults with stable prescriptions.
Discussing your options with your optometrist will help you decide which treatment is best for your vision and lifestyle.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse Over Time?
Astigmatism can change over time due to factors like aging or eye injuries. Regular eye exams are critical for monitoring these changes and ensuring your prescription remains up to date.
At The Eye Care Team, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain optimal eye health. Our comprehensive exams not only detect astigmatism but also assess your overall eye health, checking for conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration.
Managing Astigmatism for Children
Astigmatism isn’t just an issue for adults—it can also affect children. Undiagnosed astigmatism in children can lead to challenges in school and everyday activities. Signs that your child may have astigmatism include:
- Complaints of blurry vision
- Frequent squinting
- Difficulty reading or focusing
- Eye strain or headaches
Early detection is key to ensuring your child’s vision development and success. Schedule a pediatric eye exam to keep your child’s vision on track.
Benefits of Treating Astigmatism
Astigmatism can cause frequent headaches due to the constant effort your eyes make to focus. Correcting the condition alleviates this strain, reducing discomfort and improving overall quality of life. Additional benefits of treatment include:
- Improved visual clarity
- Reduced eye strain and headaches
- Enhanced performance in daily activities like reading, driving, or working
- Better quality of life and confidence
Whether you choose glasses, contacts, or surgery, addressing astigmatism ensures you’re seeing the world clearly and comfortably.
Why Choose The Eye Care Team?
The Eye Care Team provides personalized care to meet your unique vision needs. Our experienced optometrists use modern technology to diagnose and treat astigmatism, ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.
We believe in building long-term relationships with our patients and offering a friendly, welcoming environment for the entire family. Whether you need glasses, contact lenses, or modern treatment options, we’re here to help you achieve your best vision.
Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision
If you’ve been wondering whether astigmatism means you need glasses, the answer depends. Glasses are a reliable and effective solution, but alternative treatments may also be available. The first step is a comprehensive eye exam to determine the severity of your astigmatism and explore your options.
Don’t let blurred vision hold you back. Schedule an appointment at The Eye Care Team in Spokane or Chewelah today, and let us help you achieve the clear, comfortable vision you deserve!
