Astigmatism is a prevalent eye condition that can impact one or both eyes, causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances. It affects individuals of all ages, and those with astigmatism may experience short-sightedness or long-sightedness. In fact, nearly half of the people in the US who wear glasses for vision correction have astigmatism.

What exactly causes astigmatism? It occurs when the surface of the eye (cornea) or the lens behind it deviates from a round shape, resembling more of an oval, akin to a rugby ball. This irregularity distorts the light entering the eye, preventing it from focusing correctly on the retina, resulting in blurred images.

Symptoms of astigmatism often include blurred vision, especially when attempting to focus on objects at various distances, such as road signs or reading materials. Left uncorrected, astigmatism can lead to discomforting symptoms like headaches, fatigue, squinting, eye pain, and overall blurry vision.

There are two primary types of astigmatism:

1. Regular astigmatism, which occurs when the cornea is more curved in one direction than the other. This is the most common form and can typically be corrected with ease using glasses or toric contact lenses.

2. Irregular astigmatism, a less common variant, arises when the curvature of the cornea is uneven. It may stem from an eye injury or conditions like keratoconus, where the central cornea progressively thins and becomes irregular in shape. Correcting irregular astigmatism may pose a challenge with glasses alone, but specialized contact lenses could offer a solution.

So, how can one test for astigmatism? If you suspect you have astigmatism, it's essential to consult with one of our opticians and schedule a comprehensive eye examination. You can conveniently book your appointment online or call us at 914-574-5182.

Don't let astigmatism blur your vision of the world. Take the first step toward clearer vision by addressing your eye health concerns today. Whether you're experiencing symptoms like amber colored eyes or hazel eyes, our team is here to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Experience the difference at our practice and see the world with clarity.