What it is
It often occurs together with short-sightedness or long-sightedness. Mild astigmatism may not need correcting at all.
Glasses and contact lenses are the usual treatment. Laser eye surgery is an option for some adults and is usually paid for privately.
Common signs
- Blurred or distorted vision at any distance
- Eye strain and headaches
- Squinting to see clearly
- Difficulty seeing at night
How it is usually diagnosed
- A routine eye test at an optician
- Refraction and keratometry to measure the curve of the eye
- Corneal topography if surgery or special lenses are considered
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Each glasses or contact lens prescription, with its date
- Eye test reports
- Corneal mapping results, if done
Questions to ask your doctor
- How much astigmatism is there, and does it need correcting?
- Are glasses or contact lenses better for me?
- How often should I have my eyes tested?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Sudden loss of vision or sudden painful red eye
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.