Understanding Astigmatism and How It Works
Do you have blurry vision that impacts your daily activities? Have you been told you have astigmatism? Whether or not you’ve received a diagnosis, it can be helpful to learn more about the condition and your treatment options.
At GW Eye Associates in La Jolla and Del Mar, CA, Drs. Gordon and Wildon Wong work closely with each patient to help diagnose and treat different eye conditions. Our eye doctors want each patient to experience the best vision possible. Read on to learn more about what an astigmatism diagnosis could mean for you.
How the Eyes Focus Light
Before we discuss refractive errors, it can be helpful to know how we see the world around us. First, light enters the front of the eye and passes through the cornea. Then, it passes through the lens and finally, it is focused onto the retina or light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
In order for the light to focus clearly on the retina – in the right spot, not before the retina or behind it, and without scattering – these structures must be functioning properly. The cornea is largely responsible for refracting or bending the light, but the lens plays an important role as well.
What Is Astigmatism?
Ideally, our eyes are round. An eye affected by astigmatism, on the other hand, is shaped like an egg. This irregular shape is caused by an imperfect cornea or lens. The result is blurred vision at a range of distances.
Can I Have Astigmatism and Hyperopia or Myopia?
Many of our patients have astigmatism and hyperopia (trouble seeing close-up objects) or myopia (trouble seeing far away). Hyperopia occurs when the eye is too short or the cornea’s curvature is too flat. Myopia occurs when the eye is too long or the cornea is curved too steeply.
Effective Solutions Are Available for Astigmatism
Astigmatism can be easily diagnosed during a routine eye exam at our Del Mar or La Jolla clinic. Once we have more information about why you’re experiencing blurred vision, we can discuss your treatment options.
Glasses
Prescription eyeglasses correct the way that light is refracted and focused on your retina. With the right prescription, customized just for your needs, you should be able to see comfortably to perform tasks that are close-up, intermediate distances, and far away.
Contact Lenses
Similar to glasses, contact lenses work by correcting the way your eyes naturally bend and focus light. We offer a range of contacts that are specifically designed for patients with astigmatism, including toric lenses. Rather than offer uniform correction, like other types of lenses, toric lenses can have varying prescription strengths for different parts of your eye.
Refractive Surgery
Many of our patients with astigmatism are interested in a more permanent solution. LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) can provide lasting benefits by reshaping the cornea during surgery. We can discuss whether you’re a good candidate during a consultation.
Contact Us for Clearer Vision
Clear, dependable vision can greatly improve your quality of life. At GW Eye Associates in La Jolla and Del Mar, we have all the tools you need for healthy eyes and great eyesight. Reach out using our online contact form today to get started.
