What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a condition in which the cornea or lens of the eye is not properly curved, causing visual impairment. This disorder causes light not to focus properly on the retina, which causes images to appear blurred or distorted.

What Causes Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is usually a congenital condition and is often associated with genetic factors. However, it can sometimes develop as a result of irregularities in the corneal surface or eye injuries. When the cornea loses its ideal curvature, light is refracted unevenly on the retina, which is the main cause of astigmatism. Later in life, natural changes in the cornea can affect astigmatism and worsen the condition.

How Does the Astigmatic Eye See?

It is important to understand the visual experience of people with astigmatism. People with astigmatism often complain of blurred vision at both near and far distances. This causes them to have difficulty seeing straight lines or small details. Circular clouds of light called halos or light scattering around lights during night driving is also a common symptom . People with astigmatism may experience headaches and eye fatigue when reading text or focusing on objects when not wearing glasses or contact lenses.

What are the Symptoms of Astigmatism?

This issue is critical for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The most obvious symptoms of astigmatism include blurred or distorted vision. Eye strain and the need for frequent eye rubbing are particularly pronounced after activities that require prolonged visual focusing. Headaches are often centred around the eyes, and discomfort such as stinging or itching in the eyes may occur. Failure to see clearly at far or near distances, increased difficulties during reading or computer use are also typical signs of astigmatism.

Astigmatism Symptoms:

• Blurred or distorted vision
• Eye fatigue and the need for frequent eye rubbing
• Headaches, especially around the eyes
• Stinging or itching in the eyes
• Inability to see clearly at far or near distances
• Difficulty reading or using a computer

How is Astigmatism Treatment Performed?

The treatment of astigmatism includes various methods to correct the refractive errors of the eye. Glasses or contact lenses can be designed to correct astigmatism and can improve the quality of vision by ensuring that light is properly focused on the retina. However, this is not a permanent treatment.

Eye surgery can be considered for people who want a permanent improvement in the quality of their vision. Laser eye surgeries such as LASIK, PRK and LASEK are intended to permanently remove astigmatism by correcting the shape of the cornea.

How Much Does Astigmatism Treatment Cost?

Each treatment method varies depending on the person’s age, severity of astigmatism and general health status. Your ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive eye examination to determine the most appropriate treatment method for you. Making the right choice between treatment options should be in accordance with personal needs and lifestyle.

Please click here to read our article with the price list of eye laser surgery in Turkey 2025.

The above information is for informational purposes. If you have any medical concerns or questions, please make an appointment with our ophthalmologists.