Astigmatism, a common refractive error affecting the eye's shape, is often diagnosed in childhood but can develop or worsen at any age. Many wonder if their astigmatism will get worse over time. The answer, unfortunately, isn't a simple yes or no. While some individuals experience stable astigmatism throughout their lives, others see a change in its severity. This article explores the factors contributing to astigmatism progression and provides insights into what you can expect.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Before we discuss worsening astigmatism, let's understand its root cause. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the eye's clear front surface) or lens is irregularly shaped. Instead of being perfectly round like a basketball, it's more like a football, causing light to focus unevenly on the retina. This uneven focusing leads to blurry vision at all distances. This irregular shape can be present from birth (congenital astigmatism) or develop later in life due to various factors.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse Over Time?
Yes, astigmatism can get worse over time, although it's not guaranteed. The extent of the change depends on several factors.
Factors Contributing to Astigmatism Progression:
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Age: Astigmatism can change during childhood and adolescence as the eye grows and develops. Changes are less common in adulthood but can still occur. Some studies suggest a potential increase in astigmatism with age, particularly in older adults.
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Eye Injuries or Surgeries: Trauma to the eye or refractive surgeries like LASIK can potentially alter the cornea's shape and lead to a change in astigmatism.
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Eye Diseases: Certain eye conditions, such as keratoconus (a progressive thinning of the cornea), can cause significant astigmatism progression.
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Underlying Medical Conditions: Rarely, systemic diseases might indirectly affect the eye's structure and contribute to astigmatism changes.
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Genetics: A family history of astigmatism may increase the likelihood of experiencing changes in its severity.
How is Astigmatism Progression Monitored?
Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring astigmatism. During these exams, your eye doctor will perform various tests, including:
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Refraction: This test determines the refractive error in your eyes, including the degree of astigmatism.
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Corneal Topography: This advanced imaging technique creates a detailed map of your cornea's surface, allowing for precise assessment of its shape and any irregularities.
How is Astigmatism Corrected?
Fortunately, even if your astigmatism worsens, correction methods are available:
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Eyeglasses: Eyeglasses with cylindrical lenses correct for astigmatism by counteracting the irregular curvature of the cornea.
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Contact Lenses: Similar to eyeglasses, contact lenses can effectively correct astigmatism. Toric contact lenses are specifically designed for this purpose.
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Refractive Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism. However, these procedures carry risks, and suitability depends on individual factors.
What if My Astigmatism is Getting Worse?
If you notice a significant change in your vision, such as increased blurriness or eye strain, it's essential to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor immediately. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam to assess any changes in your astigmatism and recommend the appropriate course of action.
Does Astigmatism Always Get Worse?
No, astigmatism doesn't always get worse. Many individuals maintain stable astigmatism throughout their lives. Regular eye exams are key to detecting any changes and ensuring appropriate management.
What are the Symptoms of Worsening Astigmatism?
Symptoms of worsening astigmatism might include:
- Increased blurriness at all distances.
- Eye strain and headaches.
- Difficulty seeing at night.
- Double vision (in some cases).
Can Astigmatism Be Prevented?
While you can't prevent congenital astigmatism, protecting your eyes from injury can help minimize the risk of developing or worsening astigmatism later in life.
By understanding the factors that can influence astigmatism progression and seeking regular eye care, you can effectively manage your vision and maintain optimal eye health. Remember, early detection and intervention are crucial for addressing any changes in your astigmatism.
