Astigmatism - Treatment Options For This Common Refractive Error

                                                                                         

One of the most common eye issues, astigmatism is irregular curvature in the cornea of the eye. This type of eye irregularity is also known as a refractive error. In those with astigmatism, light entering the eye is refracted more in one direction than in the other. As a result, only one part of the object can be in focus at any given time. Parts of the image may be blurry or wavy while others are clear. Other symptoms include headaches or eyestrain.

This condition is usually hereditary, and cannot be prevented. It is often present at birth, although it can also increase over time, particularly from increased use of the eyes for close work. Eye injuries or diseases can also cause astigmatism. Nearly everyone has astigmatism to some degree, although treatment is only required in those with significant curvature.

Astigmatism is easily diagnosed through an eye exam, and is usually treated with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. Contact lenses designed to treat astigmatism are known as toric lenses. They come in soft styles or more rigid hard lenses, which are known as RGP’s or rigid gas permeable lenses. A contact or eyeglass prescription with three numbers rather than two is a sign you’re your prescription includes correction for astigmatism in addition to any other eye issues you may have. Many people with astigmatism also have myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness).

A relatively new treatment method that is gaining in popularity is refractive surgery. During this procedure, the shape of the cornea is changed using lasers or other means. Candidates for refractive surgery as a treatment for astigmatism have eyes that are free from corneal scarring or eye diseases.

Laser treatments for astigmatism include LASIK and PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy. In LASIK procedures, a small incision or “flap” created in the cornea allows the use of lasers to remove tissue, reshaping the cornea to better refract light. PRK uses the laser to remove corneal tissue from the front of the cornea, rather than behind it. Both procedures are done with the use of anesthetic eye drops and take just a few minutes. Laser eye surgery is the only treatment that fixes the underlying issue causing astigmatism rather than treating its effects.

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For additional information on LASIK laser vision correction as well as CustomVue WaveFront LASIK and LASIK laser eye surgery in Long Island, it is important to speak with skilled surgeons about your options.

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