Astigmatism is a common refractive error that is caused by the eye not focusing light evenly on to the retina. For normal vision to occur, the eye should be shaped like a ball – however with astigmatism it is shaped like a cone. This results in vision gradually deteriorating and becoming blurry.
Nowadays, laser eye surgery is a common treatment for astigmatism, but it hasn’t always been that way. Our article today discusses the history of astigmatism, how it is diagnosed, and the range of treatment options (including laser) that are available.
The Discovery Of Astigmatism
In 1793, Thomas Young discovered the phenomenon of astigmatism while having problems with his own eyes. After much self-study and research, he presented his thoughts and theories in a ground-breaking lecture in 1801.
Meanwhile, George Biddell Airy was independently investigating the condition, and in 1825 was the first person to produce lenses that corrected astigmatism.
Although both of these men share credit for the initial recognition of the condition, the actual term ‘astigmatism’ was invented by William Whewell – a prominent English scientist and philosopher at the time.
How Is Astigmatism Caused?
The causes of astigmatism are still not known, although some research suggests that genetics have a prominent role in its development. Astigmatism is often present at birth, but it may also develop later in life as a result of an accident or injury to the eye.
The disease is commonly accompanied by either short-sightedness or long-sightedness. In each case, there is medical terminology that describes the condition:
- Myopic astigmatism – the combination of short-sightedness and astigmatism.
- Hyperopic astigmatism – when long-sightedness and astigmatism occur simultaneously.
Contrary to some popular beliefs, astigmatism cannot be caused by squinting or reading in low light.
Diagnosis & Treatment
An eye examination is used to diagnose astigmatism, and the condition is easily corrected in its early stages by wearing spectacles or contact lenses – each treatment adjusts the angle at which light enters the eyes.
Orthokeratology is a modern procedure that can also be used. It is a painless treatment that gradually reshapes the curvature of the cornea. This is achieved by patients wearing a series of specially designed lenses over a specified duration of time. However, the results are not permanent – the lenses mould the cornea while sleeping. By the end of the day, the cornea has already started to revert to its original shape.
Laser surgery is now becoming the treatment of choice as it can quickly and effectively correct many degrees of astigmatism. The laser is used to burn away tiny amounts of eye tissue to help reshape the cornea and normalise eyesight. As a rule of thumb, 85% of glasses and hard lens wearers, and 95% of soft lens users are suitable for astigmatism correction using laser.
It’s also important to note that by choosing to undergo laser eye surgery for astigmatism, the risk of infection is minimal. Wearing contact lenses gives a much higher risk for eye infections to occur.
Many of the clinics on our site have surgeons specialising in using lasers to correct astigmatism. We recommend sending an enquiry to a clinic near you for further details on prices and services offered.