Diagnosis and treatment
What is astigmatism and why does the image look distorted?
What are the main things to know?
- Astigmatism - the image is distorted because the cornea or the lens has an uneven shape
- It is usually combined with myopia or hyperopia rather than occurring on its own
- Objects may look doubled or have blurred outlines at any distance
- It is corrected with glasses or toric contact lenses after a precise fitting
How do you recognise astigmatism?
- Blurred or distorted outlines of objects at any distance
- A feeling that the image is doubled
- Tired eyes and squinting
- Headache after visual work
Why does astigmatism develop?
The cause is an uneven rather than spherical shape of the cornea or, less often, of the lens. Because of this the rays of light are not focused at a single point, and the image comes out distorted at any distance, not only up close or far away.
When should you see an ophthalmologist about astigmatism?
If the image looks blurred or distorted regardless of distance, if your eyes are constantly tired, or if your usual glasses no longer give a sharp picture.
How can I help with astigmatism?
I determine the degree and the axis of the astigmatism and explain the possible options for correcting it.
Questions patients ask most often
What do patients ask most often?
How do toric lenses differ from ordinary ones?
Toric lenses have a different optical power in different meridians, so they compensate for exactly the uneven shape of the cornea in astigmatism. I select them individually at the appointment.
Can astigmatism be corrected for good?
Optical correction compensates for astigmatism as long as you use it, but it does not change the shape of the cornea itself. I will explain the options in more detail at the consultation.
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How do you book an appointment about this?
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