Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens, which leads to blurred or distorted vision. Instead of being perfectly round, the eye has a more oval shape, causing light to focus at multiple points rather than just one. This can affect both distance and near vision.
What is Astigmatism?
Signs and Symptoms of Astigmatism May Include…
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Eyestrain or discomfort
- Headaches
- Squinting
- Frequent eye rubbing
How Do We Treat Astigmatism?
Not all astigmatism requires treatment. Many people who have a small amount of astigmatism are able to readjust their eye muscles with no issues at all. Patients will require astigmatic correction when the degree of astigmatism causes visual blur or when they experience symptoms of eyestrain, fatigue and headaches.
Treatment is often with spectacles or contact lenses.
FAQs about Astigmatism from Parents and Guardians
An optometrist or ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye exam, which includes tests to check for astigmatism. These tests measure how well your child can see and how light is focused on the retina. They may use special tools to measure the shape of the cornea and assess any vision problems.
Yes, astigmatism can be treated. The most common treatments are:
- Glasses: Prescription glasses or contact lenses can correct astigmatism by helping light focus properly on the retina.
- Contact lenses: Some children may be prescribed toric contact lenses, which are designed to correct astigmatism.
- Surgery: In some cases, when glasses or contacts aren’t enough, surgery (like LASIK) may be recommended, though this is usually only done in older children or adults.
It depends on how severe the astigmatism is. If your child’s astigmatism is mild, they may only need glasses or contacts for certain activities like reading, using the computer, or watching TV. If the astigmatism is more severe, they may need to wear corrective lenses all the time.
In most cases, astigmatism is not a serious condition, but it can affect your child’s ability to see clearly. If left untreated, it can lead to eye strain, headaches, or difficulty with schoolwork and daily activities. Early treatment, like glasses or contact lenses, can help prevent these issues and improve their vision.
Astigmatism can change over time, especially during childhood when the eyes are still developing. It may improve or worsen as your child grows. Regular eye exams are important to monitor any changes in their vision and update their prescription if needed.
Astigmatism usually doesn’t go away on its own. However, with the right treatment, your child’s vision can be corrected and they can see clearly. Regular eye exams will help track any changes in the condition.
Astigmatism is quite common. Many children and adults have some form of astigmatism, often along with other refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness. It can affect one or both eyes, and it can range from mild to more severe.
Yes, if left untreated, astigmatism can make it hard for your child to see clearly, which could affect their ability to read, write, or focus on classroom activities. This can lead to frustration or poor performance at school. Treating astigmatism with glasses or contact lenses can help your child see better and improve their learning experience.
It’s important for children to have regular eye exams, especially before starting school. If your child has been diagnosed with astigmatism, they should see an optometrist regularly to ensure their prescription is up to date and that their eyes are developing properly.
Your Child’s Sight is Precious
Good vision is vital for your child’s development, both academically and in their everyday life. Don’t wait for the signs to show up – let our behavioural optometrists help you give your child the best chance at clear, efficient vision.