Health

What Is Astigmatism?

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common vision problem caused by an error in the shape of the cornea. With astigmatism, the lens of the eye or the cornea, which is the front surface of the eye, has an irregular curve. This can change the way light passes, or refracts, to your retina. This causes blurry, fuzzy, or distorted vision. Farsightedness and nearsightedness are two other types of problems with the way light pass to your retina. Farsightedness is called hyperopia. Nearsightedness is called myopia.

What are the types of astigmatism?

The two main types of astigmatism are:

 Corneal

 Lenticular.

Corneal astigmatism happens when your cornea is misshapen. Lenticular astigmatism happens when your lens is misshapen.

What causes astigmatism?

It’s not known what causes astigmatism, but genetics is a big factor. It’s often present at birth, but it may develop later in life. It may also occur as a result of an injury to the eye or after eye surgery. Astigmatism often occurs with nearsightedness or farsightedness.