Astigmatism
Causes, symptoms and modern treatment options
Astygmatyzm - co to?
Astigmatism is a refractive error in which light entering the eye does not focus in one point on the retina. Instead of a single focus, several focal points are created, leading to a blurred and distorted image.
In practice, this means that the image may be blurred regardless of distance, and straight lines may appear wavy, tilted or stretched in one direction. Astigmatism is therefore not simply about the "strength" of vision, but the way the eye forms an image.
The visual system of a person with astigmatism is constantly trying to compensate for the incorrect focusing of the image. Over time, this can lead to eye fatigue, visual strain and headaches. Astigmatism often coexists with other refractive errors, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Symptoms of astigmatism
How does a person with astigmatism see?
Astigmatism symptoms result from an abnormal focus of light in the eye and can significantly affect daily visual comfort. Their severity depends on the degree of the refractive error and the eye's ability to compensate.
These symptoms are often worse during reading, computer work or prolonged visual focus, when the visual system is forced to constantly compensate.
Most common symptoms
- blurred and distorted vision both up close and at a distance,
- blurred or wavy contours of objects and difficulty seeing straight lines,
- rapid eye fatigue and a feeling of tension in the eyes,
- frequent squinting to improve visual acuity,
- headaches, especially in the forehead and temple area,
- reduced quality of vision in low light,
- difficulty concentrating visually and impaired spatial perception
Causes of formation
Where does astigmatism come from?
Eye structure
Astigmatism results from an abnormal shape of the eye's optical components, most commonly the cornea or lens. When their shape is not symmetrical, light does not focus at a single point, leading to a distorted image.
Congenital and genetic predisposition
In most cases, astigmatism has a congenital basis. The shape of the cornea and lens is largely genetically determined, so the condition is often familial and can be present from birth.
Acquired and developmental factors
In some patients, astigmatism may develop or worsen during life. This is usually associated with changes in the cornea or lens resulting from disease, trauma or eye surgery.
Types of astigmatism
Classification
Astigmatism is not a uniform condition. In clinical practice, we classify it according to the structure of the eye, the regularity of the refractive error and its severity — which directly affects the choice of correction method.
Structure of the eye
Depending on which component of the optical system is responsible, a distinction is made:
- corneal astigmatism - the most common form, resulting from an asymmetrical curvature of the cornea
- lenticular astigmatism - less common, caused by an abnormal shape or position of the lens
Regularity of the defect
This criterion determines the options for correcting astigmatism:
- regular astigmatism - the main meridians of the eye are perpendicular to each other (at 90°) and the refractive error is easily corrected by standard methods
- irregular astigmatism - meridians are not perpendicular; it often accompanies corneal disease, scarring or trauma and requires more advanced treatment
Degrees of refractive error
The degree of astigmatism is determined by the power of the cylinder:
- Mild astigmatism - up to 1,0 cyl, usually causes slight eye strain
- Moderate astigmatism -is within the scope of 1.0-2.0 cyl i results in more pronounced distortion of the image
- Severe astigmatism - above 2,0 cyl, can significantly impair the quality of vision.
How to treat astigmatism?
Modern ophthalmology offers effective methods of correcting astigmatism. Treatment always begins with a thorough diagnosis, including corneal mapping (topography) to assess the degree and nature of the refractive error.
Astigmatism diagnosis
- eye refraction measurement,
- assessment of the curvature and shape of the cornea,
- examination of the anterior segment of the eye,
- if necessary, advanced topographic imaging.
Accurate diagnosis is essential for selecting an effective correction method and monitoring any changes over time.
FAQ
We will answer all your concerns
What are the first symptoms of astigmatism?
The first symptoms include blurred and distorted vision, frequent squinting, rapid eye fatigue and headaches, particularly when reading or working up close.
Is astigmatism hereditary?
Yes, astigmatism often has a genetic basis. If the condition is present in the parents, the risk of it appearing in the child is higher.
Can myopia and astigmatism occur at the same time?
Yes. This is a very common combination, referred to as myopic astigmatism. The image is then both blurred and distorted.
Does astigmatism get better on its own?
Astigmatism does not resolve on its own, as it is due to the anatomy of the eye. The refractive error may change with age, but permanent correction is only possible with appropriately selected treatment.
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