Astigmatism

Definition

Astigmatism is a common refractive error in the eye where the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, leading to blurred or distorted vision. It can affect both near and far vision and often occurs alongside myopia or hyperopia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Astigmatism is usually corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
2. It occurs when the cornea or lens is not perfectly spherical but has an irregular curvature.
3. Patients with astigmatism may experience headaches, eyestrain, and difficulty seeing at night.
4. Regular eye exams are essential for diagnosing astigmatism early and managing it effectively.
5. Pharmacological treatments are generally not used to correct astigmatism itself but may be used for related symptoms such as dry eyes.

Review Questions

• What causes the blurred vision experienced by individuals with astigmatism?
• How is astigmatism typically corrected in patients?
• What are some common symptoms associated with untreated astigmatism?

Related terms

Myopia:

A refractive error where close objects appear clearly, but distant ones do not.

Hyperopia:

A condition where distant objects can be seen more clearly than close ones.

Presbyopia:

Age-related loss of the eye's ability to focus on nearby objects due to a hardening of the lens.