National
National Eye Institute
Eye Institute
National Institutes of Health
National Institutes of Health
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is
a common type of
refractive error. It is
a condition in which
the eye does not focus
light evenly onto
the retina, the light-
sensitive tissue at the
back of the eye.
What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common type of refractive error. It is a condition in
which the eye does not focus light evenly onto the retina, the light-
sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
What is refraction?
Refraction is the bending of light as it passes through one object to
another. Vision occurs when light rays are bent (refracted) as they
pass through the cornea and the lens. The light is then focused on
the retina. The retina converts the light-rays into messages that are
sent through the optic nerve to the brain. The brain interprets these
messages into the images we see.
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How does astigmatism occur?
Astigmatism occurs when light is bent differently depending on
where it strikes the cornea and passes through the eyeball. The
cornea of a normal eye is curved like a basketball, with the same
degree of roundness in all areas. An eye with astigmatism has a
cornea that is curved more like a football, with some areas that are
steeper or more rounded than others. This can cause images to
appear blurry and stretched [Link] shape enough to allow the eye to
focus close objects clearly.
Who is at risk for astigmatism?
Astigmatism can affect both children and adults. Some patients with
slight astigmatism will not notice much change in their vision. It is
important to have eye examinations at regular intervals in order to
detect any astigmatism early on for children.
What are the signs and symptoms of astigmatism?
Signs and symptoms include:
• Headaches
• Eyestrain
• Squinting
• Distorted or blurred vision at all distances
• Difficulty driving at night
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your eye care
professional. If you wear glasses or contact lenses and still have
these issues, a new prescription might be needed.
How is astigmatism diagnosed?
Astigmatism is usually found during a comprehensive dilated eye
exam. Being aware of any changes in your vision is important. It
can help in detecting any common vision problems. If you notice
any changes in your vision, visit your eye care professional for a
comprehensive eye dilated examination.
Astigmatism 2
Can you have astigmatism and not know it?
It is possible to have mild astigmatism and not know about it. This is
especially true for children, who are not aware of their vision being
other than normal. Some adults may also have mild astigmatism
without any symptoms. It’s important to have comprehensive dilated
eye exams to make sure you are seeing your best.
How is astigmatism corrected?
Astigmatism can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or
surgery. Individual lifestyles affect the way astigmatism is treated.
Eyeglasses are the simplest and safest way to correct astigmatism.
Your eye care professional will prescribe appropriate lenses to help
you see as clearly as possible.
Contact Lenses work by becoming the first refractive surface for
light rays entering the eye, causing a more precise refraction or
focus. In many cases, contact lenses provide clearer vision, a wider
field of vision, and greater comfort. They are a safe and effective
option if fitted and used properly. However, contact lenses are not
right for everyone. Discuss this with your eye care professional.
Refractive Surgery aims to change the shape of the cornea
permanently. This change in eye shape restores the focusing power
of the eye by allowing the light rays to focus precisely on the retina
for improved vision. There are many types of refractive surgeries.
Your eye care professional can help you decide if surgery is an
option for you.
Astigmatism 3
For More Information
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This information was developed by the National Eye Institute to help patients and their
families search for general information about astigmatism. An eye care professional who
has examined the patient’s eyes and is familiar with his or her medical history is the best
person to answer specific questions.
The National Eye Institute (NEI) is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and
is the Federal government’s lead agency for vision research that leads to sight-saving
treatments and plays a key role in reducing visual impairment and blindness.
National Eye Institute
National Institutes of Health
2020 Vision Place
Bethesda, MD 20892–3655
(301)496–5248
[Link] NIH Pub. No. 04-3252 Revised 2007
Last Reviewed on 02/22/13
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