What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism Treatment in Chicago

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is oblong – in other words, it is shaped more like a football than a basketball. The oblong shape causes light rays to focus in two places on the retina, causing blurred vision.

Astigmatism may also accompany nearsightedness or farsightedness, and can get worse with age. A small amount of astigmatism may cause only slightly blurred vision. Sometimes uncorrected astigmatism can lead to headaches or eyestrain.

How to Treat Astigmatism

Following an eye examination performed by an eye doctor, people with astigmatism are normally prescribed eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct this problem. If you are experiencing symptoms that appear to be related to an eye condition such as astigmatism, an eye exam will be able to determine if you require treatment.