Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is not perfectly spherical. Instead of having a uniform, rounded shape, the cornea or lens has a slightly more curved or irregular shape, resembling more of an oval or football-like appearance.
This irregular shape causes light to bend or refract unevenly as it enters the eye, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Astigmatism is often present from birth, but it can also develop later in life due to various factors, such as eye injuries, certain medical conditions, or the natural aging process.
If you have astigmatism, you may experience a range of symptoms that can impact your daily life. Some of the most common symptoms of astigmatism include:
Blurred or distorted vision, especially at a distance or when reading
Difficulty seeing clearly at night or in low-light conditions
Frequent headaches or eye strain
Sensitivity to glare or bright lights
Double vision or the appearance of halos around lights
These symptoms can vary in severity and may become more pronounced over time, especially if the astigmatism is left uncorrected.