What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a condition that causes your vision to be blurry at any distance and is a very common condition. The causes are either due to irregularly shaped corneas or the curvature of the lens inside the eye, which prevents light from focusing properly on the retina. Slight amounts of astigmatism don’t usually affect a person’s vision and don’t require treatment. Larger amounts cause the vision to be distorted or blurred. Astigmatism often occurs with other vision conditions like nearsightedness and farsightedness; these conditions are referred to as refractive errors. Treatment for astigmatism includes wearing corrective eyeglasses, specially designed hard or soft contact lenses or by LASIK surgery.  Astigmatism can also be treated during cataract surgery by two different options.  One option is a Limbal Relaxing Incision or LRI, which is a small incision(s) made to help relax the cornea and help correct its misshaping.  Another option is a special cataract lens called a Toric Lens, which is an intraocular lens that corrects for astigmatism.

If you have astigmatism and have considered treatment, please call Eye Center South at 1-800-NEW-EYES, to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Marnix Heersink, Dr. Sebastian Heersink, Dr. Zsolt Bansagi, Dr. William Bennett or Dr. Amanda Matthews to see if you are a candidate for treatment.  Eye Center South, Dothan, Andalusia, Panama City, Destin, and Albany.

Kim Smith

Recent Posts

Medical vs. Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery: What’s the Difference?

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a common procedure that can address a variety…

2 weeks ago

Protecting Your Vision: Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy: Early Diagnosis and Expert Treatment for Lasting Vision For people living with diabetes,…

1 month ago

Using HSA/FSA Funds for Eye Surgery

Maximizing Your HSA/FSA: A Guide to Eye Surgery When it comes to paying for eye…

2 months ago

What Happens If You Don’t Treat Cataracts?

September is Healthy Aging Month — a perfect reminder to focus on eye health, especially…

3 months ago

Recognizing When Your Child Needs Specialty Medical Eye Care: Beyond Routine Eye Exams

August is Children’s Eye Health Month—an ideal time to focus not just on regular vision…

4 months ago

What to Expect Before, During, and After LASIK Surgery

Thinking about ditching your glasses or contacts for good? LASIK surgery could be your solution.…

5 months ago