Astigmatism

Astigmatism is when the eye has a more irregular shape. This may cause unclear or distorted vision for both far and near objects.

Causes of Astigmatism

In a “perfect” eye known as Emmetropia, vision is clear for everything far and near. When light enters an Emmetropic eye it focuses on 1 single point directly onto the Retina (the area at the back of the eye responsible for light absorption) and this results in clear focussed vision.

Astigmatism is caused by the eyeball being more oval-shaped instead of round or spherical. For example, the eye looks more like a rugby ball than a soccer ball.
This eye shape causes light entering the eye to split and focus onto 2 separate points resulting in blurry/distorted or even double vision symptoms.

Astigmatism can occur alongside long-sightedness (Hyperopia) or short sightedness (Myopia). This depends on whether the split light focuses in front or behind the retina.
  • Blurry or Hazy vision for far and/or near objects
  • Double vision
  • Eye discomfort or glare
  • Confusion between similar letters when reading e.g. E and F appear the same
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches or eye strain

In some cases, especially in children as their eyes are still developing, there may be no signs/symptoms of Astigmatism.

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If you are concerned about your own or your child’s vision it’s best to book an eye examination to have this properly tested and diagnosed.
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