Can Prescription Glasses Correct Astigmatism?

Wearing prescription contact lenses and eyeglasses can correct and/or prevent a number of visual problems. Astigmatism often pronounced stigmatism is not an eye disease, as most people might believe. In fact, astigmatism stems from a refractive error (such as farsightedness or nearsightedness). This is a condition that affects how the eyes focus light. Light is not gathered through a single focal point, but rather through several channels. 

What are the Symptoms of Astigmatism?

Astigmatism causes many symptoms. However, the most common symptom is a blurry vision at all distances. A common sign is squinting. Squinting occurs when you half way close your eyes in order to focus on reading. Imagine reading a book and the words are blurry or distorted. In an effort to focus, when inadvertently squint your eyes, not realizing you might some astigmatism. The symptoms of this eye condition include:

• Blurred vision
• Distorted vision
• Squinting while reading

What Causes Astigmatism?

There are several causes of astigmatism as well as different types. In all types of astigmatism, the cornea has a non-spherical shape. Instead of the cornea being shaped like a perfectly round baseball, it takes on the shape of a football.  The most common causes are tight eyelids, genetics and rubbing your eyes. Did you know that there are four different types of astigmatism?

• Mixed astigmatism- Parts of the prescription are nearsighted and parts are farsighted.
• Myopic astigmatism- The prescription has varying amounts of nearsightedness.
• Hyperopic astigmatism- The prescription has varying amounts of farsightedness.
• Irregular astigmatism- The curvature of the cornea is inconsistent and irregular. This is commonly associated with genetics and can be associated with ocular surgery as well as eye rubbing.

How is Astigmatism Treated?

Depending on which type of astigmatism one has prescription eyeglasses can help correct your vision. It is important to note that prescription contact lenses can be just as effective in treating astigmatism. If the astigmatism is irregular, then rigid contact lenses are best. Sometimes surgery is the best option.

Contact Our Local Eye Doctor to Treat Your Astigmatism Today

We can help you get a better understanding of astigmatism and how prescription glasses and/or contact lenses can help you see better. At Arena Eye Care Optometry, we are also looking for insightful ways to improve your eyesight. Give us a call at (916) 419-8167 or visit our clinic at 2087 Arena Blvd #120, Sacramento, CA 95834. Dr. Krister L. Holmberg and Dr. Shephali Patel look forward to helping you.