
What do you need to know about astigmatism?
Astigmatism, like myopia and hypermetropia, is a refractive error. In general terms, the disorder manifests itself in blurred, fuzzy vision, regardless of the distance to objects, surfaces. In most cases, astigmatism is caused by irregular curvature of the cornea. It can occur at birth, due to heredity, but it can also develop over time, at the same rate as myopia or hypermetropia, for example. The vision problem can be corrected simply and quickly with an appropriate pair of lenses prescribed by a doctor following an ophthalmological examination. Surgical treatment can also be used to remove both the vision problem and the need to wear glasses throughout the day.
How can you tell if you have astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common problem among both children and adults. The main symptoms related to this refractive error are:
- Blurred vision at all distances
- Eye fatigue closely linked to headaches
- Tendency to squint the eyes to see objects clearly
- Inability to distinguish objects clearly at night or in poorly lit areas
- The habit of bringing objects closer to see details
What treatments are available: astigmatism surgery, contact lenses or glasses?
The same as in case of treatments specifically designed for myopia, there are several options for astigmatism, with reliable results. From surgery, laser procedures and prescription glasses, all these forms of treatment ensure the clearest vision, both day and night, significantly improving vision.
- RelEX Smile diopter reduction – thanks to technologies that have revolutionized the medical field, astigmatism can be corrected quickly, painlessly and in just a couple of minutes. It is performed without a flap (corneal flap) and without removing the corneal epithelium. Allows correction of astigmatism up to -5 diopters. The procedure is minimally invasive, painless and the patient regains clear vision immediately after the surgery.
- Diopter Reduction with Excimer Laser – is a short, safe and quite comfortable procedure for the patient. Recovery is also short and discomfort is minimal.
- Diopter reduction with lens implant – this surgery is recommended for high diopters and is similar to cataract surgery. The procedure is short, between 5 and 10 minutes, and is performed under local anesthesia. For 45 days after the procedure, it is recommended to take eye drops and wash the eyes with boiled and cooled water or saline daily.
- Prescription of glasses – many patients opt for classic glasses. Their lenses are prescribed by the doctor, based on the results of the specialist examination. Their advantage over laser procedures is that they cost significantly less.
- Contact lenses – if glasses are no longer desired for purely aesthetic reasons, the patient may opt for a pair of contact lenses. It is a versatile, simple and painless option that will become routine. Unlike glasses, lenses should be kept in a sterile holder with a disinfectant solution to limit the risk of infection. It is also advisable to wash your hands thoroughly before applying the lenses, following the steps received from specialists.
What to expect after astigmatism surgery?
The procedure is minimally invasive, painless and finished in just a few minutes. For additional comfort, a local anesthesia can be performed. After the surgery, the patient may experience minimal discomfort. This sensation disappears on its own in a few hours or days and is not a cause for concern. Other postoperative symptoms may include:
- Fuzzy, blurred vision for a short period of time
- Difficulty distinguishing details at night
- Local aches and headaches
- Dry eyes for which drops will be administered
In case of complications, severe discomfort or other symptoms, an emergency visit to the specialist for a detailed examination is recommended.
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