Astigmatism causes blurred vision, headaches, and eye strain. While some people may be predisposed to developing astigmatism due to genetic factors, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.
According to an ophthalmologist at Vision Clinic Sydney if you are concerned about astigmatism and want to take steps to reduce your risk, consult with a good doctor who understands the significance of maintaining good eye health and its impact on your overall well-being.
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism is caused by an uneven cornea or lens. Astigmatism is blurry eyesight by focusing light unevenly on the retina. Common symptoms of astigmatism include headaches, eye strain, and difficulty reading or seeing clearly at both near and far distances.
Astigmatism is prevalent but treatable with glasses or contacts. In more severe cases, refractive surgery may be necessary to reshape the cornea and improve vision.
Preventing Astigmatism
While some people may be predisposed to developing astigmatism due to genetic factors, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing this condition. Here are some tips to help protect your eyes and prevent astigmatism:
- Get regular eye exams: Maintaining eye health and detecting vision issues early requires regular eye exams. Comprehensive eye exams can detect and correct astigmatism.
- Wear protective eyewear: If you participate in sports or work in hazardous environments, wearing protective eyewear can help prevent eye injuries that could lead to astigmatism.
- Practice good eye hygiene: Eye hygiene prevents infections and other vision issues. Avoid rubbing your eyes, wash your hands before touching them, and remove contact lenses before swimming or showering.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, regularly exercising, and avoiding smoking can all help protect your eyes and reduce your risk of developing astigmatism.
Protecting Your Eyes
In addition to preventing astigmatism, there are several steps you can take to protect your eyes and maintain good eye health. Here are some tips to help keep your eyes healthy:
- Practice the 20-20-20 rule: To prevent eye strain and reduce your risk of developing computer vision syndrome, taking frequent breaks when working on a computer or other digital device is important. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
- Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses can help protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, which can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other vision problems.
- Use proper lighting: Proper lighting when reading or using a computer reduces eye strain and headaches. Task lighting and screen positioning reduce glare.
- Give your eyes a break: If you read or do other close-up work, give your eyes a break. Reduce eye strain by taking frequent breaks.
Treatments for Astigmatism
Astigmatism can be hereditary and often develops in childhood, so it’s important to seek treatment from a qualified professional. If you’re looking for effective astigmatism treatment, there are several options available.
Eyeglasses
Astigmatism treatment usually involves eyeglasses. They improve vision by reshaping the cornea. Anti-reflective coatings on modern eyeglasses reduce glare and improve vision.
Contact Lenses
Contact lenses also treat astigmatism. They’re worn directly on the eye like eyeglasses. Contact lenses are great for active people who don’t like glasses.
LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea, improving vision. It’s popular with people who want to cut back on glasses or contacts. LASIK surgery permanently corrects astigmatism, and most patients see better the next day.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
PRK is another type of astigmatism surgery. It removes the cornea’s top layer and reshapes the underlying tissue to improve focus and vision. PRK does not create a corneal flap like LASIK, reducing complications. However, vision improvement may take up to a week.
Implantable Contact Lenses (ICLs)
LASIK and PRK ineligible patients can get ICLs. To improve vision, a small, flexible lens is placed behind the iris. Most people see better within days of the quick, painless procedure.
Choosing the Right Treatment Option
Choosing the right treatment option for astigmatism depends on various factors, including your age, lifestyle, and the severity of your astigmatism. It’s essential to consult an eye specialist who can guide you on the best treatment option for your specific needs.
You can find several eye clinics specializing in treating astigmatism. These clinics offer state-of-the-art technology and experienced eye specialists who can provide you with the best possible treatment.
Conclusion
Preventing vision issues like astigmatism requires eye protection. Regular eye exams, protective eyewear, good eye hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle can prevent astigmatism. Following the 20-20-20 rule, wearing sunglasses, using proper lighting, and taking a break can also help protect your eyes. Eyeglasses, contacts, LASIK, PRK, and ICLs can treat astigmatism. For the best treatment, consult an eye specialist that uses cutting-edge technology and skilled eye doctors to help you achieve optimal eye health.
