Astigmatism
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Atkinson Family Eye Care: John Atkinson, O.D., PLLC
Optometry located in Kannapolis, NC
If your astigmatism is mild to moderate, it may not bother you that much, but severe astigmatism that causes constant blurry vision can make life difficult. Dr. Atkinson and the qualified team at Atkinson Family Eye Care in Kannapolis, North Carolina, provide solutions for correcting astigmatism so you can see and function normally. To learn more, call or email the office, or schedule an appointment online.
Astigmatism Q & A
What is astigmatism?
When you have astigmatism, the cornea, or surface of your eye, is not properly shaped to focus light into sharp, clear images. If you have uncorrected astigmatism, you may notice it when you are reading as it can make letters appear blurry or double.
Astigmatism is often genetic, but an injury or surgery of the eye can cause astigmatism. Keratoconus, a disease that causes a thinning of the cornea, can also result in astigmatism.
Astigmatism is extremely common, and glasses and many types of contacts do a good job of correcting mild to moderate astigmatism. Severe astigmatism, however, can be more difficult to correct, but you do have options.
How do I know if I have severe astigmatism?
If blurry vision prevents you from driving or performing everyday tasks, you may have a more severe case of astigmatism.
Some other signs of astigmatism are:
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Poor night vision
- Squinting
Dr. Atkinson can determine if you have astigmatism, and how serious it is, with a comprehensive eye exam. Astigmatism is measured in diopters: Lower diopter numbers are more mild, while higher diopters indicate more severe astigmatism.
How is astigmatism treated?
How your astigmatism is treated depends on your diopter score. Treatment options can be broken down into the following range estimates:
- 0-1 diopter: no correction required
- 1-3 diopters: glasses and special contacts such as toric lenses
- 3-5 diopters: contact lenses become more difficult, but rigid gas permeable lenses are sometimes an option
- 5-6 diopters: surgery may be needed
If you are diagnosed with severe astigmatism, Dr. Atkinson and his caring team can help you understand which options are available for glasses or contact lenses so you can make the choice that works best for you.
If surgery is your best option, Dr. Atkinson will work with your specialist to ensure you receive the best possible care that results in clear, reliable vision so you can work, drive, read, and live your life without worrying about complications from astigmatism.
Atkinson Family Eye Care accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans. For more information, call or email the office, or make an appointment online.
