'Astigmatism' is a disease which affects -

Key Points

• Astigmatism is a common eye condition that causes blurred vision.
• It occurs when the cornea (the clear front cover of the eye) is irregularly shaped or sometimes because of the curvature of the lens inside the eye.
• This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, the light-sensitive surface at the back of the eye.
• People with astigmatism often have headaches, eye strain, and trouble seeing at night.
• Astigmatism can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

Additional Information

• Astigmatism is often present at birth and can occur in combination with nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia).
• Regular eye exams are important to detect astigmatism early and to provide the necessary corrective measures.
• Symptoms of astigmatism may include distorted or blurred vision at all distances, difficulty with night vision, eyestrain, and headaches.
• Children may not be aware they have astigmatism, so it is important for them to have regular eye check-ups.
• Advanced cases of astigmatism might require specialized treatments such as laser eye surgery (LASIK) to reshape the cornea.