Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a warpage of the optics of the eye which causes objects at all distances to appear indistinct and distorted.  Astigmatism is very common occuring in approximately 80% of the population to some degree.  Astigmatism usually occurs in both eyes and can very from very slight to severe.  Astigmatism usually is caused by a warpage of the cornea but can be caused by other optical areas of the eye including the lens and retina.

Astigmatism can cause eye strain, light sensitivity, headaches, poor reading, poor distance/driving vision, squinting, eye rubbing and fatigue.

Astigmatism is treated, either full time or part time, with glasses, contact lenses and sometimes laser correction.  Only some forms of astigmatism limited to the cornea can be treated with laser correction.  All forms of astigmatism can be treated with glasses and virtually all forms of astigmatism can be treated with contact lenses.