Astigmatism | Optometrist in Carlsbad CA

Welcome to the Astigmatism Treatment Page of Muir Diablo Occupational Medicine, your trusted optometrists in Carlsbad CA. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care services, including the diagnosis and treatment of astigmatism. In this article, we will provide you with detailed information about astigmatism, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

Understanding Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a common vision problem that affects the shape of the cornea or lens of the eye. Unlike a normal, rounded cornea, the cornea of an individual with astigmatism is irregularly shaped. This irregularity causes light to be focused unevenly on the retina, resulting in blurry or distorted vision. It can affect both children and adults, often developing during childhood.

Causes of Astigmatism

Astigmatism can be either inherited or caused by factors such as eye injury, eye surgery, or certain eye conditions. It may also be present alongside other refractive errors such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. Regular eye examinations with our optometrists can help identify astigmatism and determine its underlying cause.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of astigmatism include:

• Blurred or distorted vision at all distances
• Difficulty seeing clearly, especially at night
• Eye strain
• Headaches
• Eye discomfort or fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to schedule an appointment with our optometrists for a comprehensive eye exam.

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

At Muir Diablo Occupational Medicine, our experienced optometrists offer various treatment options to address astigmatism and improve your visual acuity. The most common treatment methods for astigmatism include:

Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses

Eyeglasses and contact lenses are the simplest and non-invasive treatment options for astigmatism. Our optometrists will prescribe customized lenses to correct and compensate for the uneven cornea shape, providing clear vision. We offer a wide range of high-quality eyeglasses and contact lenses to suit your preferences and lifestyle.

Refractive Surgery

For individuals looking for a permanent solution to their astigmatism, refractive surgery may be a suitable option. LASIK, PRK, or other refractive surgeries can reshape the cornea to improve its focusing ability, reducing or eliminating astigmatism and the need for corrective lenses. Our skilled surgeons will assess your eligibility and guide you through the entire process.

Orthokeratology

Orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K, involves using specially designed contact lenses to reshape the cornea overnight. This temporary corneal reshaping provides clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. If you are interested in Ortho-K, our optometrists will conduct a thorough evaluation and create a personalized treatment plan for you.

Preventing and Managing Astigmatism

While not all cases of astigmatism can be prevented, there are certain steps you can take to maintain good eye health and reduce the risk of astigmatism progression. These include:

Regular Eye Examinations

Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and management of astigmatism. Our optometrists recommend scheduling comprehensive eye exams at least once a year or as advised based on your age, health, and eye history. Routine eye exams can help identify astigmatism at its early stages and allow our team to provide timely treatment.

Protective Eyewear

If you participate in sports or engage in activities that carry a risk of eye injury, wearing protective eyewear is essential. Shielding your eyes from potential harm can help reduce the likelihood of developing astigmatism due to trauma and safeguard your overall eye health.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to good eye health. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, staying hydrated, avoiding smoking, wearing sunglasses in bright sunlight, and practicing good eye hygiene.

Contact Muir Diablo Occupational Medicine for Astigmatism Treatment

If you are experiencing blurred vision or suspect you may have astigmatism, don't delay seeking professional help. At Muir Diablo Occupational Medicine, our skilled optometrists are dedicated to providing you with personalized and effective astigmatism treatment options. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards clear, comfortable vision.