Solutions for Overcoming Astigmatism
If your eyes have trouble focusing on objects clearly, chances are you have a refractive error. Nearsightedness is when you can see nearby objects but have difficulty seeing further away. Farsightedness is when you can see objects better form further while those that are up close appear blurrier. Astigmatism is a separate type of refractive error that can make objects at various distances hard to see clearly. In this blog, the outstanding eye team at TRES VISION Group explain how astigmatism affects your vision and how you can overcome it.
Understanding Astigmatism
Having astigmatism makes it difficult to see objects that are both near and far due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. While eyes normally have a spherical shape, those affected by astigmatism have an abnormal curvature that looks more egg- or football-shaped. Because of this atypical shape, the incoming light rays bend (or refract) incorrectly and may not reach your retina. Since your retina is responsible for communicating with the brain to enable sight, this can make objects appear blurry.
Most of the time, patients have astigmatism in both eyes, though it is possible to have it in just one. Some patients have astigmatism in addition to nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Because many children have similar astigmatism to their parents, doctors believe that genetics are the primary factor in who develops astigmatism. Although astigmatism is usually present from birth, you may develop it at an older age because of an eye injury, eye disease, or eye surgery. If you notice a change in your vision, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor.
Treating Astigmatism
Fortunately, astigmatism does not mean that you must always have blurry vision. Several treatment options are available so that you can see objects at various distances without squinting and developing headaches.
Most patients choose prescription eyewear (glasses or contact lenses) to correct their vision. However, since astigmatism is a permanent problem, they must wear these lenses for the rest of their lives.
If you would like to eliminate or dramatically reduce your reliance on prescription lenses, TRES VISION Group offers a couple of surgical solutions. LASIK is the most common refractive surgery for reshaping the cornea. Here, Dr. Rafael Trespalacios offers high-definition custom blade-free LASIK for superior results. Visian ICL, better known as “implantable contact lenses” are an alternative procedure that involves inserting a permanent prescription lens so that you can see without having to put on lenses every day.
Overcome Your Astigmatism
Whether you want to continue correcting your astigmatism with prescription lenses or are interested in learning more about surgical options, please schedule an appointment with our world-class eye team here in Melbourne, Merritt Island, and Suntree, Florida. Our doctors can devise a treatment plan that restores crisp, clear vision in a way that makes you feel comfortable. Call (321) 984-3200.