VISION CONCERN

Astigmatism

Also called: astigmatism, blurry vision, blurred vision, distorted vision

Astigmatism is a common refractive error that can make vision appear blurred or distorted at both near and far distances.

TYPICALLY OCCURS

Corneal shape, genetics and natural eye development

TREATED BY

Laser eye surgery, lens surgery, glasses and contact lenses

ALSO LINKED TO

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Why it happens?

Astigmatism usually occurs because the cornea — the transparent front surface of the eye — has an uneven curvature. Instead of having an evenly rounded shape, different parts of the cornea curve by different amounts. As light enters the eye, it is therefore refracted differently across these areas and does not converge at a single, precise point on the retina. This can make lines, objects and fine details appear blurred, stretched or distorted at different viewing distances.

Astigmatism can also originate from the lens inside the eye, although corneal astigmatism is common. Genetics and natural eye development play an important role, and many people are born with some degree of astigmatism or develop it while their eyes are growing. It commonly occurs alongside other refractive errors such as short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia). Mild astigmatism is extremely common and may cause few noticeable symptoms.

The shape of the cornea can also change over time. Eye injuries, certain types of eye surgery and corneal conditions such as keratoconus can cause or alter astigmatism. For this reason, a significant or rapidly changing prescription may warrant further investigation rather than being considered routine refractive change. Astigmatism is not caused by reading in poor light, sitting too close to screens or using the eyes too much, although uncorrected astigmatism can make visually demanding activities more tiring.

How far along is it?

Early

Slight irregularity causes little or occasional blurring. Some people may not notice symptoms, particularly when the degree of astigmatism is small.

Moderate

Blurred or distorted vision becomes more noticeable at near or far distances. Eyestrain, headaches or difficulty seeing fine detail may occur.

Advanced

Visual distortion becomes more significant and can interfere with everyday activities without appropriate correction. Higher or changing astigmatism may require more detailed assessment of the cornea.

What addresses it?

Treatments that address this

Laser eye surgery→PRK eye correction→LASIK eye surgery→

An eye examination is worthwhile if you regularly experience blurred or distorted vision, eyestrain, headaches or difficulty focusing clearly at different distances. Children may not always recognise blurred vision themselves, making routine eye examinations particularly useful for identifying refractive errors.

Seek prompt professional assessment if your vision changes suddenly, deteriorates rapidly or is accompanied by eye pain, flashes, a sudden increase in floaters or loss of vision. These are not typical features of ordinary astigmatism and can indicate other eye conditions requiring urgent attention.

Quick Questions:

What does vision look like with astigmatism?

Astigmatism can make objects appear blurred, distorted or less sharply defined. Some people notice that lines in certain directions appear clearer than others, while higher levels can affect both near and distance vision.

What causes astigmatism?

Astigmatism is usually caused by differences in the curvature of the cornea and is often influenced by genetics and natural eye development. Less commonly, it can result from the shape of the lens, eye injury, surgery or certain corneal conditions.

Can astigmatism get worse with age?

Astigmatism can change over time as the eye and cornea change. Small prescription changes can occur naturally, but substantial or rapidly progressing astigmatism should be professionally assessed.

Can astigmatism be corrected?

Yes. Glasses and contact lenses can correct the way light focuses in the eye. Depending on eye health, prescription and individual suitability, some people may also be candidates for laser vision correction or lens-based procedures.