Identifying and Treating Astigmatism Effectively

Imagine having a video camera that functions well and reliably records images. However, despite your efforts, you can't manage to get the viewfinder or camera lens to focus correctly. Everything turns out blurry. This is similar to the experience of a patient with astigmatism, where vision becomes blurred. If you're concerned about astigmatism or other eye health issues, reach out to our team at Eyear Optical. 

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a distortion of the eye lens. The lens plays a crucial role in allowing light to enter the eye. When combined with an image, it creates what our brain interprets as vision. However, clear focus depends on the proper functioning of the lens. When light enters the lens incorrectly, clarity is compromised. As a result, the brain perceives the image as blurry and out of focus. Astigmatism is a common problem that has persisted for decades. Presently, it affects a significant portion of the population, across all age groups.

Shape-Related Impact

A normally functioning eye can be likened to a basketball – round, with the same radius measurement on all sides, and symmetrical. In contrast, an eye with astigmatism is more like a football, retaining a round shape but becoming oblong rather than spherical. This shape variation significantly impacts how the eye lens admits light to the optic nerve.

Developmental Astigmatism vs. Trauma-Induced

In cases of developmental astigmatism, which a person is born with and progresses over time, the measurements of the eye are abnormal but symmetrical from side to side. This makes it predictable and manageable by adjusting the focus level of eyeglass lenses or contacts. After a vision exam, corrective devices are prescribed to counteract the impact of the eye's shape and restore visual clarity.

However, astigmatism can also result from trauma. An impact or injury can alter the eye's shape, affecting the positioning of the eye lens. In such cases, the eye's shape becomes irregular. Addressing this type of astigmatism is more challenging for eye doctors, particularly because the irregularity isn't consistent on all sides. Eyeglasses are often preferred over contacts in these situations.

Undergoing an Eye Exam for Astigmatism

For those seeking prescription assistance in Chattanooga, Athens, or Cleveland, TN, Eyear Optical is here to help. Whether you require a recent eye exam, an update on your eye health status, or information about your astigmatism options, feel free to reach out. Our eye care team at Eyear Optical is experienced in working with all age groups and both forms of astigmatism, even the more complex cases. We can tailor a customized approach based on your individual situation through an eye exam, aiding you in regaining clarity from blurry vision. Schedule your initial appointment today to embark on the path to better vision.