Did you know?
Astigmatism is common and easy to work around your lifestyle. Most people with astigmatism wear glasses or contact lenses. See your optician to find the best option for you.
What are the symptoms of astigmatism?
Most glasses wearers will have some form of astigmatism.
In more developed cases, or without treatment, symptoms could also include:
- Headaches
- Having to squint to see clearly
- Eye strain or tiredness when focusing on prolonged tasks - like when you’re reading a book or a computer screen
What causes astigmatism?
Astigmatism is usually something you’re born with, although it can develop later on in life due to age-related changes. It’s not clear why it happens, but it’s most likely linked to your genetics. You’re also more likely to have astigmatism if you’re short- or long-sighted.
Astigmatism could develop after:
- An eye injury
- Eye surgery
- An eye disease
What help is available?
In most cases, astigmatism is easily corrected with either glasses, specialised contact lenses (called toric lenses), or even surgery.
Your optician will be able to detect astigmatism during a routine eye test, and they’ll recommend the best option for you.