Can You Have Astigmatism in Both Eyes?

Astigmatism is one of those buzzwords in the eye care world that most people have heard of, but very few know what it actually means. Astigmatism is a disorder of the eyes that can cause the light to focus on two points instead of just one. This is caused by a misshapen cornea, which in turn causes the sufferer to have blurry, slanted, or distorted vision. While you may think it only happens in one eye, most of the time it occurs in both eyes. Why? Because in a typical human, the shape of the cornea is virtually the same in both eyes. Astigmatism in both eyes can be passed down from generation to generation. Here are some more things you should know about this common eye condition.

Causes of Astigmatism

Astigmatism is quite a common problem. In fact, most people have some level of astigmatism. There are several factors that might cause astigmatism. Firstly, it could be that you were simply born with a misshapen cornea. If it is flatter or more curved than normal, it will result in your vision being distorted.

If your crystalline lens is tilted, this can also cause astigmatism. This will cause your vision to become blurry. If you have heavy tissue around the eye or an abnormal eyelid, it can also push down on the eye and cause it to become misshapen.

Symptoms

Many different symptoms can occur as a result of astigmatism. These symptoms could occur by themselves or you might have some of them at the same time. In any case, if you have any of these symptoms, it is always advisable to visit your eye care specialist as soon as possible. They can assess your symptoms, diagnose the problem, and suggest treatment options.

You should note that some of these symptoms might not necessarily be caused by astigmatism, but instead by another vision problem, like the following:

• Blurry or distorted vision
• Eye fatigue
• Eyestrain
• Headaches

If you notice that the quality of your vision is deteriorating, you should see an eye doctor. They will give you an eye exam and advise the next course of action and treatment.

Tests for Astigmatism

There are a few tests that your eye doctor will carry out to check if you have astigmatism. First, they will measure the reflected light in your eye. They will measure this light on the surface of the cornea using an instrument called a keratometer. This instrument will show both the orientation and amount of astigmatism in the eyes.

Second, the eye doctor will measure the curvature of the cornea. They will also measure the curvature of your cornea’s surface using a keratoscope. This will be able to tell the doctor about the degree of astigmatism that you are facing. This process is called corneal topography.

Treatment for Astigmatism

There are a range of different treatments available if you are diagnosed with astigmatism. Some people are given corrective lenses for this condition, but they are not always the best solution.

Corrective lenses can weaken your vision over time. And, they cause your eyes to become more reliant on them. As time goes by, you will need to get stronger glasses or contact lenses to counteract this weakening process.

Another option is surgery, but there are big risks involved. The most common type of eye surgery is laser, also called LASIK. But, this can be expensive and bring unwanted side effects. One of the biggest dangers associated with surgery is that it might go wrong and you could end up with no sight at all.

Natural Alternatives

Before you resort to either getting corrective lenses or surgery, look into natural treatment options. One of these options is doing eye exercises or vision therapy at home. You should consider eye exercises because they can help correct the symptoms that can be caused by astigmatism.

Your eyes contain a muscle that is used to focus on objects in the distance and up close. And, like other muscles in your body, this one will also be strengthened with regular exercise. There is a range of different exercises available that can help with blurry vision and other focusing problems. There are also exercises specifically for astigmatism.

For example: Try to read a book without any glasses. Then look away in the distance to a different object and focus on it. Then go back to the book and focus on the printed words again. Continue to do this for a few minutes or until your eyes become tired.

Another exercise to practice is swaying. Stand up and stare at a tree out your window, about 30 feet away. With your eyes on the tree, sway your body from one side to another. Tilt your head up and then down. This stretches your eye muscles.

On top of eye exercises, you should consider your diet. In order for your body to function properly, you need to ensure that you are getting the right vitamins and minerals in your diet. Your eyes will also make use of these vitamins and minerals to stay in good shape.

Therefore, before you opt for expensive corrective lenses and dangerous surgery, consider natural options. You should give eye exercises and vitamin supplements a chance to help you deal with astigmatism.

Dealing with Astigmatism in Both Eyes

There are many causes of astigmatism and it can have some very negative effects on the quality of your vision. People are often quick to resort to corrective lenses or surgery to fix problems and this isn’t always the best approach to deal with vision issues. Even if your doctor suggests one of these options, look into natural alternatives as well.

Getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals in your diet will help your vision. When you supply them with all the nutrients they need, they can function optimally. Intentionally exercising your eyes each day strengthens the muscles and improves flexibility. Exercise and a healthy diet can help you to reduce vision problems and keep your eyes healthy for as long as possible.