Astigmatism means your eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football, so light is focused at more than 1 place in the eye.
The main symptoms of astigmatism are:
- blurred vision
- headaches
- eye strain – you may notice this after concentrating for a long time, such as when using a computer
Astigmatism normally happens alongside short-sightedness or long-sightedness.
Astigmatism in 1 eye may cause lazy eye (where the vision does not develop properly). It's important this is spotted early so it can be treated.
Astigmatism may also affect your child's reading or concentration.
Go to an opticians if:
- you or your child has symptoms of astigmatism
- you or your child has not had an eye test for 2 years
Astigmatism can be linked to an eye condition called keratoconus. So it's important to get regular eye tests.
Astigmatism does not always need to be treated, but possible treatments can include glasses, contact lenses and laser surgery.
