All About Astigmatism And How A LASIK Procedure Can Help

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If you wear glasses or contacts, it’s possible that your eye doctor has told you that you have astigmatism. Astigmatism is a type of refractive error, but luckily there are several ways to combat this condition. Of course, this includes glasses and contacts, however, a LASIK procedure is also a viable solution you may consider. Interested in learning more? Here’s everything you should know about astigmatism and how LASIK can help. 

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What is astigmatism? 

 

Ideally, your eyes should be ball-shaped, like a bouncy ball or a kickball. This shape is what’s responsible for helping you see clearly. That’s because this rounded shape helps your cornea bend light into the back of your retina. Without this shape, light is unable to reach the retina in the correct manner, leading to blurred and fuzzy vision. This is exactly the case for people with astigmatism. Essentially, astigmatism is a condition in which the eye has more of a football shape. That is, the front surface of the eye has a tapered curve that doesn’t allow light to bend properly, resulting in distorted vision. 

 

What are the symptoms of astigmatism? 

 

The symptoms of astigmatism vary from person to person However, some of the most common indicators of this condition include: 

  • Distorted, fuzzy, or blurred vision
  • Headaches
  • Eyestrain 
  • Squinting
  • Issues seeing properly at night 

 

How is astigmatism diagnosed?

 

Eye doctors such as optometrists and ophthalmologists are responsible for checking your eyes for astigmatisms. During your examination, they may use a variety of tests, such as a refraction test, and machines, like a keratometer, to properly diagnose your eyes for astigmatism. Generally, there are two main types of astigmatism you can be diagnosed with- lenticular and corneal. Lenticular astigmatism occurs when your lens is the part of your eye that is irregularly shaped whereas corneal astigmatism occurs when it’s the cornea. Both of these types of astigmatism can effectively be treated with glasses, contacts, or corrective eye surgery.

 

What are the causes of astigmatism? 

 

In most cases, astigmatism is something that people are simply born with, however, it can also develop later in life. Because of this, genetics seems to be the leading factor, as people with a family history of the condition as well as other refractive errors and eye disorders are at a higher risk for astigmatism. Other causes may include eye injury and eye diseases. 

 

How is astigmatism treated?

 

There are various treatments one can consider for their astigmatism. The first type includes corrective lenses, meaning glasses or contacts. Both glasses and contacts allow light to enter your eye in a more conducive manner, which helps clear up your vision. In the case of astigmatism, corrective lenses are more suitable for children and people who want the least invasive type of treatment possible. 

 

For people who wish to have a more permanent solution to their problem, laser vision correction surgery may be more preferable. LASIK eye surgery uses lasers to alter the shape of your cornea so that it may bend light properly, eliminating the football eye shape of astigmatism, as well as your need for glasses or contacts. If you’re interested in undergoing LASIK to fix your astigmatism, make an appointment for a consultation with a trusted Los Angeles LASIK surgeon today. There, you’ll be able to learn more information about the procedure as well as how LASIK eye surgery in Los Angeles can help you attain the beautifully clear vision of your dreams. 

 

 

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