{"id":730,"date":"2023-11-23T13:55:44","date_gmt":"2023-11-23T13:55:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/?p=730"},"modified":"2023-11-23T13:56:19","modified_gmt":"2023-11-23T13:56:19","slug":"top-10-faqs-about-astigmatism","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/top-10-faqs-about-astigmatism\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 FAQs About Astigmatism: Everything You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism is a common eye condition that affects how we see the world around us. Unlike the more straightforward issues of nearsightedness or farsightedness, astigmatism distorts our vision in unique ways, making everyday activities like reading a book or driving a car a bit more challenging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this blog post, we\u2019ll demystify astigmatism by addressing the top ten frequently asked questions about it. Whether you\u2019re someone who\u2019s recently been diagnosed, or you\u2019re just curious about this eye condition, we\u2019re here to provide clear, concise, and useful information to help you see astigmatism in a whole new light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ht-block-toc  is-style-outline htoc htoc--position-wide toc-list-style-plain\" data-htoc-state=\"expanded\"><span class=\"htoc__title\"><span class=\"ht_toc_title\">Table of Contents<\/span><span class=\"htoc__toggle\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\"><g fill=\"#444\"><path d=\"M15 7H1c-.6 0-1 .4-1 1s.4 1 1 1h14c.6 0 1-.4 1-1s-.4-1-1-1z\"><\/path><path d=\"M15 1H1c-.6 0-1 .4-1 1s.4 1 1 1h14c.6 0 1-.4 1-1s-.4-1-1-1zM15 13H1c-.6 0-1 .4-1 1s.4 1 1 1h14c.6 0 1-.4 1-1s-.4-1-1-1z\"><\/path><\/g><\/svg><\/span><\/span><div class=\"htoc__itemswrap\"><ul class=\"ht_toc_list\"><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-1-what-is-astigmatism\">1. What is astigmatism?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-2-what-causes-astigmatism\">2. What causes astigmatism?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-3-how-common-is-astigmatism\">3. How common is astigmatism?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-4-what-are-the-symptoms-of-astigmatism\">4. What are the symptoms of astigmatism?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-5-how-is-astigmatism-diagnosed\">5. How is astigmatism diagnosed?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-6-how-is-astigmatism-corrected\">6. How is astigmatism corrected?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-7-can-astigmatism-worsen-over-time\">7. Can astigmatism worsen over time?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-8-how-does-astigmatism-affect-daily-life\">8. How does astigmatism affect daily life?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-9-can-astigmatism-be-prevented\">9. Can astigmatism be prevented?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-10-what-are-the-long-term-prospects-for-someone-with-astigmatism\">10. What are the long-term prospects for someone with astigmatism?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-1-what-is-astigmatism\">1. What is astigmatism?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Astigmatism-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"paper-with-word-astigmatism\" class=\"wp-image-491\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Astigmatism-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Astigmatism-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Astigmatism-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Astigmatism.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism is a common vision condition caused by an irregular curvature of the eye\u2019s cornea or lens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unlike standard refractive errors, which affect vision in one dimension, astigmatism distorts vision at all distances. This irregularity causes light rays to focus on multiple points instead of just one, leading to blurred or distorted vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism is often present from birth and can occur in combination with nearsightedness or farsightedness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-2-what-causes-astigmatism\">2. What causes astigmatism?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism usually stems from a genetically inherited irregular shape of the cornea or lens. The cornea, ideally spherical, is more oval in astigmatic eyes. This distorts light entry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Environmental factors, such as prolonged eye strain or incorrect posture, can contribute but are not primary causes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism can also develop following an eye injury, eye surgery, or due to certain eye diseases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-3-how-common-is-astigmatism\">3. How common is astigmatism?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism is quite prevalent worldwide, affecting approximately 1 in 3 people to varying degrees. It can occur at any age but is often diagnosed in early childhood or adolescence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism frequently coexists with other refractive errors, like myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aao.org\/eye-health\/tips-prevention\/eye-exams-101\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">comprehensive eye exams<\/a> are crucial since many people may not realize they have astigmatism until it\u2019s professionally identified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-4-what-are-the-symptoms-of-astigmatism\">4. What are the symptoms of astigmatism?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/focused-female-trying-tead-text-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"focused-female-trying-tead-text\" class=\"wp-image-414\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/focused-female-trying-tead-text-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/focused-female-trying-tead-text-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/focused-female-trying-tead-text-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/focused-female-trying-tead-text.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common symptoms of astigmatism include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Blurred or distorted vision<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty focusing on small print or fine details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eye strain, headaches, and\/or discomfort after visual tasks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Squinting or fatigue when trying to focus<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These symptoms can vary in intensity, and in mild cases, a person might not notice significant vision impairment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-5-how-is-astigmatism-diagnosed\">5. How is astigmatism diagnosed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism is diagnosed through a comprehensive <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/vision-test\/\" title=\"eye exam\">eye exam<\/a>, which includes a refraction test and keratometry. The refraction test helps determine the exact lens prescription needed to correct vision, while keratometry measures the curvature of the cornea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Advanced imaging technologies, like corneal topography, can also be used to create a detailed map of the cornea&#8217;s surface. Optometrists and ophthalmologists are skilled in these diagnostic techniques, ensuring accurate detection and assessment of astigmatism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-6-how-is-astigmatism-corrected\">6. How is astigmatism corrected?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism is primarily treated with corrective lenses \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyeglasses\/\" title=\"eyeglasses\">eyeglasses<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/contacts\/\" title=\"contact lenses\">contact lenses<\/a> \u2014 designed to counteract the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unlike standard spherical lenses, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/contacts\/toric-lenses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">toric lenses<\/a> have varying powers across different parts, aligning with the irregular cornea or lens to provide clear vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For higher levels of astigmatism, hard or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/contacts\/gas-permeable\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">rigid gas-permeable lenses<\/a> may be more effective. These lenses maintain their shape, offering sharper vision by compensating for the cornea\u2019s irregularity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a more permanent solution, laser eye surgery, such as LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) or PRK (photorefractive keratectomy), can reshape the cornea. Note that the choice of treatment depends on the severity of astigmatism and individual patient needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-7-can-astigmatism-worsen-over-time\">7. Can astigmatism worsen over time?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism can change over time, often worsening with age. Factors like eye growth, natural lens aging, or eye health conditions can influence its progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In some cases, significant lifestyle changes, eye injuries, or eye surgeries may also impact astigmatism severity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular comprehensive eye exams are important to monitor these changes, as timely adjustments in vision correction can be essential for maintaining overall eye health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-8-how-does-astigmatism-affect-daily-life\">8. How does astigmatism affect daily life?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Blurry-Vision-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"blurry-cars-on-road\" class=\"wp-image-733\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Blurry-Vision-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Blurry-Vision-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Blurry-Vision-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Blurry-Vision.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Astigmatism can affect daily activities, especially those requiring sharp vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Challenges may include difficulty reading small print, eyestrain during prolonged computer use, and issues with night driving due to glare and halos around lights. For children, uncorrected astigmatism can impact learning and sports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, with proper correction through glasses or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/what-are-contact-lenses-for-astigmatism\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">contact lenses for astigmatism<\/a>, most people lead normal lives without significant limitations. Awareness and regular eye check-ups are key to managing astigmatism\u2019s impact effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-9-can-astigmatism-be-prevented\">9. Can astigmatism be prevented?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The short answer is there\u2019s no definitive way to prevent astigmatism. This is because it\u2019s often hereditary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, maintaining good eye health can help. This includes regular eye exams, proper eye protection, managing chronic conditions like diabetes that can affect eyesight, and avoiding activities that strain the eyes excessively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While these practices might not prevent astigmatism, they contribute to overall eye health and can help in the early detection and management of any vision changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-10-what-are-the-long-term-prospects-for-someone-with-astigmatism\">10. What are the long-term prospects for someone with astigmatism?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With proper diagnosis and treatment, the long-term outlook for individuals with astigmatism is generally very positive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prescription glasses or contact lenses can effectively correct vision, and surgical options can provide more permanent solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s important to have regular eye exams to monitor any changes in the condition. Untreated, severe astigmatism can lead to eyestrain and headaches, and in children, it can affect vision development. However, with ongoing management, most people with astigmatism enjoy good vision and quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-conclusion\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding astigmatism is key to managing its effects on our vision and daily life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether through corrective lenses, contact lenses, or surgery, there are multiple ways to achieve clear vision with astigmatism. We encourage anyone experiencing vision problems to consult with an eye care professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember, with timely care, astigmatism is just a small bump on the road to clear vision.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re someone who\u2019s recently been diagnosed, or you\u2019re just curious about this eye condition, we\u2019re here to provide clear, concise, and useful information to help you see astigmatism in a whole new light.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":732,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[47,72],"semantictags":[],"class_list":["post-730","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-knowledge-center","tag-astigmatism","tag-astigmatism-faqs"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/730","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=730"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/730\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":734,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/730\/revisions\/734"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/732"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=730"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=730"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=730"},{"taxonomy":"semantictags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.1800getlens.com\/eyetopics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/semantictags?post=730"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}