What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is indeed a condition that arises due to the uneven curvature of the cornea or sometimes the lens of the eye. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision at various distances. The cornea should ideally be spherical, much like a basketball, but in the case of astigmatism, it may have a shape more akin to that of a football, which causes the light rays to bend unevenly. This makes it crucial to recognize astigmatism as a refractive error, which can typically be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination.

Understanding astigmatism helps in its management, often leading to prescriptions for corrective lenses designed to compensate for the uneven curvature, allowing for clearer vision. It's important for individuals experiencing symptoms such as blurred vision, eye strain, or difficulty seeing at night to seek an evaluation, as timely intervention can improve their visual performance and quality of life.