Astigmatism Treatment in the Bay Area – Causes, Symptoms & Vision Correction Options
Astigmatism is a common vision condition that causes blurred or distorted vision at any distance. It occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or, less commonly, the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina.
Most people have some degree of astigmatism. Mild cases may not require treatment, but higher levels can lead to noticeable vision issues, including eye strain and headaches.
Astigmatism often occurs alongside other refractive errors such as:
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
Together, these conditions affect how the eye bends (refracts) light, impacting overall visual clarity.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is typically related to the shape of the cornea or lens. Instead of being evenly rounded like a basketball, the surface may be shaped more like a football, causing light to focus unevenly.
Common contributing factors include:
- Natural eye shape (often present from birth)
- Genetic factors
- Changes during growth
- Eye injury or prior eye surgery
In some cases, astigmatism may be associated with conditions such as keratoconus, where the cornea becomes thinner and more irregular over time.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
Symptoms can vary depending on severity but often include:
- Blurred or distorted vision at all distances
- Eye strain or fatigue
- Frequent headaches
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night
Because symptoms can develop gradually, many people may not realize their vision is affected until they have an eye exam.
How Astigmatism Is Diagnosed
Astigmatism is diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. Your ophthalmologist will evaluate how your eyes focus light and determine the appropriate correction.
Testing may include:
- Visual acuity testing to measure clarity of vision
- Keratometry or corneal topography to assess corneal curvature
- Refraction testing to determine the exact prescription needed
These measurements help identify both the presence and severity of astigmatism and guide treatment recommendations.
Astigmatism Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the degree of astigmatism and your visual goals. Options include:
Eyeglasses
The most common solution, using specially designed cylindrical lenses to correct how light enters the eye.
Contact Lenses
- Toric soft lenses for astigmatism correction
- Rigid gas permeable lenses for sharper vision in some cases
Laser Vision Correction (LASIK & PRK)
Laser procedures reshape the cornea to improve how light focuses on the retina:
- LASIK treats the inner corneal layer using a flap-based approach
- PRK reshapes the surface layers of the cornea
These procedures can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts for eligible patients.
Your ophthalmologist will help determine the best option based on your prescription, corneal health, and lifestyle.
Take the Next Step
Blurred or distorted vision is often a sign that your eyes are not focusing light correctly.
At LASIK 2020 in Mountain View, comprehensive eye exams are designed to identify the exact cause of your vision changes – including astigmatism and other refractive errors – and guide you toward the most effective solution.
Schedule a consultation to get clear answers and a treatment plan tailored to your eyes and your daily life.