Astigmatism is the irregular curvature of one’s eye (specifically, the cornea). With astigmatism the eyes have more of a football shape as opposed to a round shape. Due to the irregular shape of the eye, light is prevented from entering it at proper angles and thus it is unable to focus properly.
There are three forms of astigmatism: myopic astigmatism, hyperopic astigmatism and mixed astigmatism. Astigmatism is also categorized as being regular or irregular.
Which form of astigmatism someone has all depends on where the principal meridians are. The meridians or lines of the eyes change, which causes the different classifications of astigmatism.
Myopic astigmatism occurs when the meridians of the eye are nearsighted; hyperopic astigmatism is when the meridians are farsighted. This can happen to one or both meridians. If one meridian is nearsighted and the other is farsighted, the result is called mixed astigmatism.
Regular astigmatism is when the meridians are perpendicular to one another. Most of the cases of astigmatism are classified as regular astigmatism. This form of astigmatism is what gives the eye its football like shape.
When the meridians in the eyes are not perpendicular, the classification would be considered irregular astigmatism. Irregular astigmatism can result from an eye injury which caused scarring of the cornea.
Vision issues that occur due to astigmatism can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses or laser surgery. The best way to decide which option is best for you and your needs is to visit our Optometrist.
A routine eye exam can detect astigmatism. Astigmatism generally occurs early in life, so it is best to get your child in to see a us to help correct any vision issues that occur due to astigmatism.
The test for astigmatism is called a retinopscopy. The test is where the doctor introduces light into the eye and then switches between different lenses between the light and you eyes. This will identify what the exact amount and form of astigmatism you may have. This test is what doctors will use to gauge what is needed to correct the vision issues, what type of prescription is needed to correct each meridian, and if the astigmatism is in both eyes (chances are the prescription will be different for each eye).