Astigmatism causes distorted vision as the eye is unable to focus and is caused by a refractive fault and not a disease. Individuals affected by this problem will experience blurred sight, squinting, headaches and strain as the eyes struggle to gain a focused result. Learning what is astigmatism and how to identify symptoms can assist in receiving the proper care to improve vision and manage dysfunction.
Eyes that are affected by astigmatism are unable to allow sufficient amounts of light through the retina and vision is compromised. It is not an eye disease, but a problem that is similar to individuals affected by nearsightedness or farsightedness. Sufferers are not able to focus their eyesight regardless of distance often leading to excessive squinting in an attempt to gain clearer visual ability.
An abnormal shape of the cornea is the cause for the condition while the poor development of lenses is referred to as lenticular astigmatism. The poor visual result is not limited to older ages, but commonly affects children over the age of 5 years. To prevent further visual deterioration, it is important that young ones are tested for visual disruptions and prescription glasses provided to correct poor formation and strengthen vision over time.
There are specific types of astigmatism that can develop including myopic where eye meridians are nearsighted, hyperopic where meridians are farsighted, and mixed where one eye includes a farsighted meridian while the other nearsighted. The condition can be caused by genetic factors or damage to the cornea in which case it is known as irregular. An examination of the eyes performed by a qualified optometrist can determine whether sight is affected by this abnormality.
A simple assessment of vision includes the application of light into the eye and technology to detect the presence of refractive problems. When looking through specialized equipment, a series of questions may be asked while looking at charts through particular lenses. Identifying the clarity of sight through these lenses can assist in determining which disorder one is most affected by.
Surgical correction and the use of prescription glasses are the most common means of improving visual capabilities. The examination performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner will assist in determining the type of lens that is required to correct the abnormal shape of the cornea. A contact lens prescription may be determined with your optometrist to evaluate whether it is suitable for enhancing problematic sight.
Where astigmatism is not treated with corrective lenses or surgery, it can cause compromised and severely deteriorated vision in children. Kids will be unable to focus their attention on academics or activities because of blurred vision and uncomfortable symptoms including eye strain and headaches. Having regular checks performed can detect problems before it negatively impacts healthy sight.
A failure to correct the disturbances in sight can cause difficulties in the performance of regular activities. Compromised quality of life can be improved by visiting an eye specialist and receiving individualized treatment according to visual needs. Implementing the proper measures can assist in determining the most effective solutions for long term ocular health.
