What is astigmatism?
In an ideal eye, the cornea and lens are round. This
allows you to focus objects clearly onto the retina,
the part of the eye that processes vision. In an astigmatic
eye, the cornea, and possibly the lens, is egg-shaped.
This distorts vision.
What are the symptoms?
Astigmatism normally begins at birth. Although eye
shape can change over the years, astigmatism usually
stays relatively stable throughout life.
What is the treatment?
Eye doctors prescribe glasses or contact lenses for
astigmatism. In fact, most people who wear glasses for
farsightedness or nearsightedness also have some degree
of astigmatism.
When you begin wearing corrective lenses, your new
vision may be peculiar or distorted. For instance, doorways
may appear curved or bent. It also is not unusual to
feel uneasy walking during the first days or week of
wearing your new prescription.
You should begin wearing your new glasses gradually.
Start using them for stationary activities such as reading
or watching television. As you adjust to your new sight,
walking and other activities will feel normal again.
If, after several weeks, you do not adapt to your new
vision, your eye doctor may need to adjust your prescription.
Wait to get contact lenses until you can wear your
glasses comfortably all day. Contact lenses should be
worn for hours at a time. They are impractical if you
must take off your prescription to move about easily.
Patients with a large amount of astigmatism may need
to be fit for astigmatic soft lenses or gas-permeable
hard lenses. These lenses cost more than standard soft
lenses because of higher manufacturing costs and the
technical skills needed in fitting them.
Please discuss any further concerns with your eye doctor.
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