If you notice halos forming around light sources like lamps and bulbs, consult with your optometrist right away because you may be experiencing early symptoms of astigmatism. Astigmatism has more to do with the subtle flaws inside your eyes. Normally, light enters the cornea and lenses of your eyes which then refracts it into the retina. In some people, however, this process can be disrupted by changes in the curvature of the cornea. This condition is known as astigmatism.
While the effects of this condition are not life-threatening, they can be jarring. Thankfully, there are many treatments available that can help you keep astigmatism symptoms at bay. Read on as Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic gives you a brief overview of this treatable vision problem.
Types of Astigmatism
Your optometrist will often classify your astigmatism as one of three types.
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Myopic astigmatism: when your eyes have both nearsightedness and astigmatism.
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Hyperopic astigmatism: when you are both farsighted and have astigmatism.
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Mixed astigmatism: a combination of either myopia and hyperopia and astigmatism.
Treating Astigmatism
There are many ways to manage the signs of all types of astigmatism. Always talk to your optometrist so you can determine which treatment is best for your particular situation.
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Specialized eyeglasses can help correct the corneal imperfections that result in astigmatism. Most types of astigmatism can be treated to perfect 20/20 vision with the correct prescription.
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Contact lenses can also be used to correct astigmatism. Ask your eye doctor about which type of contacts would give you the most comfort when used.
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Lastly, surgical procedures such as LASIK can be a good way to permanently correct vision problems caused by astigmatism. Ask your eye doctor if LASIK surgery is right for you.
Don’t let astigmatism affect your lifestyle. Talk to our eye specialists at Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic to learn more about managing the effects of this treatable eye condition. Give us a call at (425) 771-8472 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today. We serve patients in Bothell, Lynnwood, Shoreline as well as other surrounding WA communities.