A person with astigmatism does not have clear vision of objects, both near and far.
What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a visual defect that results from a deformation of the front part of the eye (cornea) or from an alteration of the internal structures of the eyeball.
Instead of being spherical, the cornea of astigmatism is often flattened. This causes a distortion of the light rays entering the eye, making images appear blurry.
What are the causes?
The exact causes of astigmatism are currently unknown, although in most cases they are linked to heredity. So astigmatists, look at your family tree and discover the cause of your poor vision!
In some cases it can also be caused by trauma or pathologies such as keratoconus (a disease that gives the cornea a conical shape)
How do you know if you have astigmatism?
The best way is to have your eyes checked, but there is a test you can try on your own.
Try looking at this "star" with one eye at a time and see if the "rays" all appear equally sharp and marked. If there are differences in one or more directions, astigmatism may be present!
How many types of astigmatism are there?
Depending on the structure that determines the defect, we speak of:
- Corneal astigmatism (anomaly of the curve of the cornea)
- Internal or lenticular astigmatism (alteration of internal structures such as the crystalline lens)
Can you be both nearsighted and astigmatic at the same time?
Of course. Astigmatism can also be associated with hyperopia and presbyopia.
How is astigmatism corrected?
- Prescription eyeglasses
- Contact lenses