Treatable Eye Conditions: Astigmatism
Astigmatism is one of the most common refractive errors in the world, affecting around 800,000 people in the UK alone! Moreover, astigmatism commonly occurs alongside other refractive errors, including myopia (short-sightedness) and hyperopia (long-sightedness).
But what causes astigmatism and how can it be treated?
What is Astigmatism?
The term “astigmatism” is taken from the Greek prefix “a-“, meaning “without” and the word “stigma”, meaning “point” – that is, “without point”. Essentially, this refers to the lack of a single point of focus on the retina at the back of the eye.
This abnormality is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens: instead of being round, like a football, it may be squashed along one axis, like a rugby ball. This causes light to be focused at more than one point on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.
Astigmatism affects visual acuity across all distances and is commonly also associated with additional symptoms, such as headaches and eye strain. Astigmatism may also be caused by corneal scarring, injury, and keratoconus. Furthermore, some research indicates that factors such as incorrect posture and excessive close work may be linked to the development of worsening astigmatism symptoms.
Treating Astigmatism
The severity of astigmatism can vary significantly and many individuals may not even notice that they are astigmatic. However, in many cases, astigmatism requires correction. In fact, many people who require vision correction for other refractive errors also have some degree of astigmatism.
For most people, correcting astigmatism in their vision will initially mean being fitted for glasses or contact lenses. Of course, many people eventually become tired of living with the inconveniences of external visual aids. So, is there a better option?
Treating Astigmatism with Laser Eye Surgery
Laser Eye Surgery was initially developed as a treatment for myopia (short-sightedness); however, it has since been expanded for the correction of a wide range of errors and prescriptions – including astigmatism.
While astigmatism is often more complicated to treat than other refractive errors, here at London Vision Clinic, we have helped thousands of patients finally enjoy their sight free from blurred and distorted images. Our expert surgeons are experienced in using various Laser Eye Surgery treatments to correct astigmatism – but how does it work?
All Laser Eye Surgery treatments, including PRK/LASEK, LASIK, and ReLEx SMILE, involve removing a portion of corneal tissue to adjust the way light is directed onto the retina. This adjustment effectively removes the refractive error, allowing the eye to function properly and providing the patient with clear vision. Importantly, for the vast majority of patients, this means finally being able to ditch their glasses and contact lenses!
“I have taken eye surgery for both my eyes with astigmatism… It has truly changed My life, for the first time since I was 7 I can look at the world without a pair of glasses and appreciate it the way I couldn’t for such a long time.”
– Sebastian
Our Results Treating Astigmatism
At London Vision Clinic, we’re extremely proud of our results in treating astigmatism, including in combination with short-sightedness or long-sightedness. Indeed, 96% of our Laser Eye Surgery patients achieve 20/20 vision or better!
For more information regarding our Laser Eye Surgery results, visit our Statistics page.
If you’re tired of a life restricted by astigmatism (or any other refractive error), we can almost certainly help. Find out if you could be suitable for Laser Eye Surgery today – don’t worry, around 97% of people are!
Get in touch with one of our friendly and knowledgeable clinic coordinators or Book a Consultation to learn more.
