Blurred images, distorted outlines of objects, constant eye strain — all these may be signs of astigmatism. This is not just fatigue or the result of prolonged screen time, but a common refractive error that requires accurate diagnosis and correction.

In this article, we will look in detail at what astigmatism is, how it differs from other visual impairments, how it is diagnosed, and how astigmatism is treated in modern ophthalmology.

Astigmatism: What Kind of Visual Disorder is It?

Astigmatism is a refractive error in which light rays passing through the eye’s optical media (the cornea and lens) do not focus at a single point on the retina. Normally, the cornea has a spherical shape, but in astigmatism it is curved — shaped like an ellipse or oval. As a result, images are distorted, appearing blurred or double.

This condition can be congenital or acquired — for example, as a result of injuries, surgical interventions, or inflammatory eye diseases. There are several types of astigmatism:

  • Simple (focus on the retina along one meridian, and outside it along the other);

  • Compound (both foci are located at different points, but outside the retina);

  • Mixed (some rays focus in front of the retina, others behind it).

Astigmatism often combines with other refractive errors — myopia (nearsightedness) or hypermetropia (farsightedness). Special attention should be paid to astigmatism in adults, since without timely intervention this disorder can significantly reduce quality of life and work capacity.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

The manifestations of astigmatism can vary. In the early stages, patients often overlook symptoms, attributing them to eye strain. However, over time, the clinical picture becomes more pronounced.

The most common symptoms are:

  • Reduced vision at both near and far distances;

  • Blurriness or distortion of images;

  • Appearance of double vision;

  • Increased eye fatigue when reading, working on a computer, or watching TV;

  • Headaches, especially in the forehead and temples;

  • Difficulty concentrating vision;

  • Frequent squinting to focus.

Regular preventive eye exams help detect vision problems early and avoid complications.

How is Astigmatism Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of astigmatism begins with a visit to an ophthalmologist. The doctor performs a comprehensive eye examination, which includes:

  • Visual acuity testing;

  • Autorefractometry — automatic determination of the eye’s refractive parameters;

  • Keratotopography — study of corneal curvature;

  • Skiascopy or retinoscopy — manual examination of refraction using a mirror;

  • Biomicroscopy — visual examination of eye structures.

If necessary, additional tests are performed, such as intraocular pressure measurement, fundus examination, optical coherence tomography, etc.

Accurate diagnosis makes it possible to determine the type, degree, and form of astigmatism, as well as to select individual treatment. This is especially important when choosing corrective means such as glasses or contact lenses.

Treatment of Astigmatism

Treatment of astigmatism depends on many factors: patient’s age, type of disorder, associated diseases, professional needs, and lifestyle. Today, there are several main approaches to vision correction in astigmatism:

  1. Optical correction:

    • Glasses with special cylindrical lenses that compensate for corneal curvature. This is the most common and safe method for both children and adults.

    • Toric contact lenses, which provide more precise correction and greater comfort for active patients.

  2. Orthokeratology — the use of special rigid night contact lenses that temporarily change the shape of the cornea and improve vision during the day.

  3. Hardware treatment of astigmatism
    This method is used to improve visual functions and strengthen eye muscles. It includes special training and physiotherapy procedures that help improve focusing and overall eye condition. Hardware treatment of astigmatism is especially effective for children but can also be applied to adults in the early stages of the disease.

  4. Surgical treatment
    If the degree of astigmatism is high or other correction methods do not provide the desired result, surgery may be required.

    Several types of surgery for astigmatism exist:

    • Keratotomy – making microscopic incisions on the cornea to change its curvature.

    • Phakic lenses – implantation of special lenses inside the eye to correct vision.

    • Lens replacement – performed in cases of severe refractive errors or associated diseases.

Many patients wonder: can astigmatism be cured? The answer depends on the specific case. In most situations, modern methods allow successful vision correction and reduction or complete elimination of symptoms, but astigmatism cannot be fully cured by conservative methods.

Prevention of Astigmatism

Preventive measures cannot always completely prevent astigmatism, especially if it is congenital. However, prevention helps reduce the risk of complications, slow the progression of the disease, and maintain stable vision.

Preventive measures for astigmatism should include:

  • Regular eye exams (especially in childhood);

  • Following a visual regime: alternating visual load with rest;

  • Proper lighting of the workplace;

  • Correct posture when reading or working on a computer;

  • Balanced nutrition rich in vitamins A, E, C, lutein;

  • Performing eye exercises (gymnastics to strengthen eye muscles).

For patients already diagnosed with astigmatism, it is important to follow prescribed treatment and not neglect doctor visits.

Astigmatism is not a sentence, but a visual disorder that can be effectively controlled. Thanks to modern ophthalmology, patients have access to a wide range of diagnostic and treatment options.

At the Oxford Medical center, experienced ophthalmologists will help you restore clear vision, select the optimal correction, and develop an individual treatment program. Do not postpone caring for your health — book an ophthalmologist consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a refractive error in which light rays are incorrectly focused in the eye due to a curved cornea or lens. As a result, images appear blurred or distorted at any distance.

How is astigmatism treated?

Vision correction is carried out with special glasses, toric contact lenses, or surgical methods. The treatment approach depends on the patient’s age, degree of disorder, and lifestyle.

How to cure astigmatism?

The treatment method is selected individually: it may be glasses, contact lenses, or surgical correction. Complete elimination of astigmatism is possible only through surgery, but in most cases effective vision correction is achieved with non-surgical methods.

Can astigmatism be completely cured?

In some cases — yes. For example, surgical correction can completely eliminate astigmatism. However, for many patients the main method remains glasses or lenses, which provide vision correction.