What is astigmatism?

18th Apr 2016

Astigmatism is an eye condition where the cornea or lens is an irregular shape which prevents light from focusing at one point. On a normal eye the light enters the eye through the lens and focuses on the retina to form a clear picture. For those with astigmatism light entering the eye can’t focus on a single point and causes a blurry picture.

There are 3 main types of astigmatism that can be helped by wearing a contact lens from Lenses Online especially designed for those with astigmatism.

  • MYOPIC ASTIGMATISM – one or both of the eyes meridians are myopic and are usually myopic in different degrees
  • HYPEROPIC ASTIGMATISM – one or both of the person’s principle meridians are Hyperopic.
  • MIXED ASTIGMATISM this type of astigmatism will see one meridian Hyperopic and one Myopic

These are the 3 main types of astigmatism and in general those with astigmatism don’t realise they have it until they are diagnosed.

You can help this eye condition by wearing contact lenses from Lenses Online. Toric Lenses are designed to assist those who suffer from astigmatism.

Toric contact lenses have multiple focus points that help your eye to focus better which leads to an improvement in vision. Toric lenses have been especially designed to meet the needs of people with astigmatism. Toric lenses have been designed with different powers in the two different meridians and these align to help correct your vision.

Astigmatism is a quite common eye condition and it can occur in both children and adults and it is still not known what actually causes the condition. Some experts believe it is hereditary while others think it is caused by an eye injury or even through bad posture, whatever the cause a lot of people are affected by astigmatism.

The symptoms of astigmatism include eye strain, blurred vision and headaches. While you may experience these symptoms it doesn’t mean you are suffering from astigmatism, but Lenses Online definitely suggests you call and make an appointment with your eye specialist just to be sure.