Astigmatism is a common vision condition. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with astigmatism or have had it for years, you may be wondering if it will get worse as you continue to age.
Astigmatism tends to remain stable throughout your life. You might notice slight shifts in your prescription over time, often linked to natural aging changes in the eye. However, if you experience any significant or sudden changes in your vision, it’s important to contact your optometrist immediately.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregular curve in either the cornea or the lens of the eye. Normally, the cornea and lens are smooth and round, allowing light to focus precisely on the retina.
However, with astigmatism, the cornea or lens is shaped more like an oval or a cylinder, causing light to scatter rather than focus evenly. This results in blurry or distorted vision.
Types of Astigmatism
Astigmatism can occur in two main forms:
- Corneal astigmatism: Irregularities in the cornea’s shape.
- Lenticular astigmatism: Irregularities in the lens, deeper within the eye.
Additionally, astigmatism can be categorized into:
- Regular astigmatism: The eye maintains uniform curves that can be corrected with glasses or contacts.
- Irregular astigmatism: The eye’s curves are uneven or unpredictable, often requiring specialized treatment methods.
These types of astigmatism can also coexist with other refractive issues like nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
Living with astigmatism often comes with some noticeable symptoms, including:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Squinting frequently to see clearly
- Eye strain, especially after reading or screen time
- Headaches stemming from visual strain
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to visit an optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam.
Does Astigmatism Worsen with Time?
Astigmatism usually remains relatively stable throughout a person’s life. However, certain factors can contribute to changes in its severity.
Age-Related Changes
Your eyes naturally change as you age. For instance, the lens inside your eye becomes stiffer, making it harder to focus on nearby objects (a condition known as presbyopia). For those with astigmatism, this can magnify existing vision issues.
Minor prescription changes are normal over time, but they don’t often signal a significant or rapid worsening of astigmatism. Regular eye exams help monitor these changes so that we can adjust your prescription as needed.
Eye Trauma or Injury
The eyes are delicate organs, and any trauma to the cornea or surrounding areas can alter its shape, potentially worsening astigmatism. Injuries from accidents, surgeries, or even wearing poorly-fitted contact lenses can sometimes lead to changes in your vision.
If you experience trauma or discomfort in your eyes, schedule an appointment with your optometrist immediately.
Keratoconus
A condition called keratoconus can also contribute to worsening astigmatism. This disease causes the cornea to thin out and bulge, resulting in a more cone-like shape. Keratoconus typically starts in adolescence or early adulthood and can significantly distort vision if left untreated.
For individuals diagnosed with both keratoconus and astigmatism, specialized care is essential.
When to See Your Optometrist
Pay attention to your vision and seek professional care when you notice changes. Regular eye exams not only help maintain your prescription, but can also catch conditions like keratoconus early. Here’s when you should book an appointment with your optometrist:
- You notice your vision worsening noticeably
- Headaches or eye strain become frequent
- You’re struggling with daily tasks due to poor vision
- You’ve experienced trauma or discomfort in your eyes
Early detection and timely treatment are key to maintaining healthy vision and addressing any issues before they escalate.
Treatments for Astigmatism
While astigmatism cannot be “cured,” it can be effectively managed to ensure you have clear and comfortable vision. Here are the most common treatments:
Corrective Eyewear
- Glasses are designed to counteract the irregular shape of your cornea or lens, allowing light to focus correctly on your retina. They’re a popular, non-invasive solution for managing astigmatism.
- Toric contact lenses, a specialized type of lens, are another great option. These lenses are designed to accommodate astigmatism by aligning precisely with the eye’s irregular shape.
Laser Eye Surgery
For those with stable prescriptions and suitable eye health, laser eye surgery can correct astigmatism in the long term. This procedure reshapes your cornea using precision laser technology, offering clear vision without the need for glasses or lenses. However, not everyone is a candidate for this surgery, so consultation with your optometrist is a must.
Other Options
- Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses can be an alternative for individuals with irregular astigmatism.
- Specialized treatments like corneal cross-linking may help manage conditions like keratoconus.
Protect & Enhance Your Vision
Astigmatism is a common condition, but with proper management and the right care, it doesn’t have to hinder your quality of life. Regular check-ups, attention to your symptoms, and tailoring treatments with your optometrist will help you maintain clear and healthy vision.At Bettner Vision, we’re here to guide you through every step of your eye care needs. Our team is committed to ensuring your vision stays sharp and your eyes are healthy. Schedule an appointment with us today, and take the first step toward clearer vision.
