Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a common vision issue that can cause ghosted images and blurring at all distances. It is caused by the cornea and/or the natural lens inside the eye having a different curvature in their vertical and horizontal axes, rather like the shape of a rugby ball. The different curved axes create two separate points of focus for light entering the eye, with either one or neither focusing on the retina.

This causes distorted images and also affect the quality of vision in low lighting; such as driving at night. These distortions can make everyday tasks, such as reading, driving, and computer work challenging. Astigmatism is often associated with hyperopia (long-sightedness) or myopia (short-sightedness), but can also be the primary issue. Small amounts of astigmatism are common but sometimes, astigmatism is hereditary and can pass down from one generation to another. However, other factors such as eye injury, previous surgery, or keratoconus can also lead to astigmatism.

But don’t give up hope, because astigmatism is easily diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. At Vision Care Clinic, our experienced optometrists will perform an eye examination that includes a detailed evaluation of the cornea, lens, and retina, including specialist diagnostic scanning equipment. Enabling us to determine the extent and specifics of the astigmatism. From there, a customised treatment plan can be created and is unique to each individual.

Treatment For Astigmatism

As astigmatism is usually combined with myopia or hyperopia, it is very important to undergo a detailed eye examination to determine which procedure is most suitable for you. At Vision Care Clinic we are proud to offer a range of procedures and will recommend the best option to meet your clinical and lifestyle needs.

The simplest treatments for astigmatism are glasses and contact lenses. However, not all patients can achieve a good quality of vision using these traditional methods; other treatments include:

• Lenticular Extraction
• LASIK
• Surface Laser
• ICL
• Lens replacement if over 45 years

Laser Eye Surgery

The laser procedures work by reshaping the cornea, to make it more regular, while the lens procedure work a little differently. The ICL works by adding a prescription contact lens behind the iris to alter the focus of light in the eye and the lens replacement treatment, involves switching the eyes natural lens with an artificial one to work with the front of the eye and alter the refraction. The type of procedure that is best for you will depend largely on the severity of your astigmatism, other refractive errors, as well as your age, medical history, and personal preferences.

Astigmatism can be a frustrating and challenging vision disorder, but with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, it can be permanently corrected. Our experienced optometrists, specialist consultants and friendly staff at Vision Care Clinic are dedicated to providing the best possible care to help you see clearly.