An astigmatism is a specific eye condition that is seen often. It involves the shape of the eye and it is an impairment that can be corrected with the use of glasses or contact lenses. An astigmatism exists when the shape of the eye is not totally round in form. Almost all individuals have an eye shape that is not completely round, but an astigmatism is when the eye shape impairs your vision. So why does your eye shape matter and what causes an astigmatism?
Why Your Eye Shape Matters
Most individuals have an eye that is similar in shape to a sphere. This is necessary because light enters your eye and then is bent in order to allow you to see things clearly. However, when you have an astigmatism, you have an eye that is similar in shape to an object like a football. This means that light does not enter your eye normally and instead it is refracted to one direction much more than the other direction. The result of the refracted light will inhibit vision and only allow you to focus on one part of an object at a time. Things that are far away will often look blurry as a result of an astigmatism.
What Causes An Astigmatism?
The exact cause of an astigmatism is not completely known. However, new research suggests that this condition is hereditary and is linked to genetics. The oblong shape of the eye that causes an astigmatism can be an inherited trait passed down. This type of distorted vision is naturally occurring and the only real cause can be attributed to heredity.
What Symptoms Are Common?
An astigmatism is relatively easy to diagnose and the main symptom is blurred vision. This blurriness is the result of the refracted light and a simple eye examination can correctly diagnose this condition. The shape of your eye is noticeable to a trained eye doctor. Sometimes an astigmatism can also be combined with nearsightedness or farsightedness, but an eye doctor can correctly diagnose all of these conditions.
What Are The Treatment Options?
Since an astigmatism is hereditary there is not much that can be done to keep you from obtaining this eye condition. The only treatment options that exist involve correcting the amount of refracted light. This can be done through the use of corrective lenses or with refractive surgery designed to combat the cause of an astigmatism.
