Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a common vision problem where the eye's cornea or lens has an irregular curve — instead of being evenly round like a football, it's shaped more like a rugby ball. Light focuses at multiple points instead of one, and vision becomes blurred or distorted at all distances.

Most people have some degree of astigmatism, and small amounts don't need correction. Larger amounts cause symptoms and are easily corrected.

Symptoms

• Blurred or distorted vision at all distances
• Squinting to see
• Eye strain or discomfort
• Headaches, especially after reading or close work
• Difficulty seeing at night, seeing halos around lights

Children with astigmatism may not know their vision is abnormal — they assume everyone sees the way they do. Regular school eye screening picks these up.

Diagnosis

A routine eye examination diagnoses astigmatism easily. Tests include the vision chart, refraction (lens trial to find the best prescription), and keratometry (measuring corneal curvature).

Treatment

• Spectacles — cylindrical lenses correct astigmatism. The most common and simplest option.
• Contact lenses — toric soft lenses or rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses can correct astigmatism
• Refractive surgery — LASIK, PRK, SMILE reshape the cornea permanently. Suitable for many adults with stable prescriptions

Astigmatism often exists alongside short-sightedness or long-sightedness, and a single prescription can address both. Children should have regular eye checks — any squinting, head tilting, holding books close, or poor school performance is worth an eye examination.