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Astigmatism

ofthalmologiki monada ioannina laserlens astigmatismos

Astigmatism is an imperfection in the curvature of the cornea or lens of the eye. The cornea and lens are spherical in shape and usually their curves are smooth and uniform across the entire surface. However, in some cases the curvatures differ from axis to axis, as a result of which the light rays are not refracted uniformly and cause two different images on the retina. It can occur in combination with myopia and hyperopia.

Causes

It is usually due to disorders of the shape of the cornea and less often of the lens. Because of its asymmetrical curvature, the astigmatic eye focuses light correctly but, as it enters the eye, it is not focused at a single point on the retina. In astigmatism the refractive power of the eye is not the same on all axes and the most common symptoms include:

  • Inability to read small print
  • Both near and far objects appear blurry or dim
  • Constant effort to focus the eyes

Diagnosis

Astigmatism is usually diagnosed through an eye exam performed by a specialist ophthalmologist who usually subjects the patient to more tests beyond refraction testing to rule out other eye conditions that may coexist with astigmatism.

Corrected with

Since astigmatism is due to the uneven distribution of light rays in many planes, it can be corrected by focusing the light rays in a single plane. This is achieved through several ways:

  • With glasses
  • With contact lenses for astigmatism, they are lenses designed with the sole aim of addressing the special vision correction needs of people with astigmatism
  • With astigmatic keratectomy: It is performed using LASIK (photorefractive keratectomy) laser technology
  • Intraocular lens surgery