Astigmatism - An Overview!

Astigmatism is an eye condition where there is an imperfection in the cornea's curvature. The cornea and lens are smooth and equally curved in all directions, which helps to focus the light rays to the retina. But if there is an imperfection in the curvature, then you will suffer from a refractive error. Astigmatism is not an eye disease. It is simply a condition where the eye is not able to focus the light. 

CAUSES

Irregular shape of the cornea is the main cause for astigmatism. It might also be caused because of the imperfect shape of the lens. Suffering from astigmatism is very common. You are either born with the condition or you might have developed it after an eye surgery. It is an incorrect concept that watching too much of television or reading without enough light causes astigmatism.

Rubbing of eyes and excess use of screen (near work on mobile, tablets, laptops) may develop astigmatism in children.

TYPES

There are three different types of astigmatism:

1. Myopic astigmatism - When the principal meridians of the cornea are nearsighted.
2. Hyperopic astigmatism - When the principal meridians of the cornea are farsighted.
3. Mixed astigmatism - When one of the principal meridians is nearsighted and the other is farsighted.

It can also be classified in two other types :

1. Regular astigmatism - When the principal meridians are perpendicular to each other.
2. Irregular astigmatism - When the principal meridians are not perpendicular to each other.

SYMPTOMS

Blurry or distorted vision, strain in the eye, eye discomfort, squinting and headaches are a few symptoms of astigmatism

DIAGNOSIS

If you notice the symptoms stated above, make sure you pay a visit to your ophthalmologist. If you are suffering from astigmatism, your doctor will do an eye test to check how much your eye is able to focus on light. After conducting his tests, he will determine how much power you have and you will have to wear glasses of that power. Apart from the option of wearing glasses or artificial lenses, you can also go for a surgery to correct the condition. LASIK is an option among the many other options of surgeries available.

DIET

Eat foods rich in sulphur. Foods like fish, green vegetables, pineapple, garlic, onion, olive oil, etc are rich in sulphur. Hence, eating these will help you battle astigmatism.