Astigmatism is a common vision problem that affects the ability to see images and text clearly. It results from irregularities of the eye's curvature, causing objects both up close and far away to appear blurry. Astigmatism can cause significant problems throughout daily life but can be easily corrected with prescription lenses or other eye care treatments. At Child & Family Eyecare in Wichita, we offer a wide range of options to help patients with astigmatism achieve clear vision. Here are a few common questions about astigmatism and how we can help.

What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism occurs when light enters your eye at an improper angle. As a result, the light scatters rather than aiming at your retina. Because of this, your vision appears blurry. Primarily, it affects your faraway vision. However, it can also impact your up-close vision. 

What Causes Astigmatism?

This particular problem stems from your eye not being shaped like a ball. Instead, your eye has more of than oblong or football shape. Due to its irregular shape, the light enters your eye and can't shine directly on the retina. Astigmatism can occur in people that are nearsighted or farsighted. It commonly occurs in people of Hispanic or African-American ethnicities and in people who might have been exposed to tobacco smoke during fetal development.

How Can an Optometrist Help?

If you think you might have astigmatism, our optometrists can help diagnose the condition by conducting several eye exams, refraction tests, and assessing your overall eye health. Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options available for astigmatism. At Child & Family Eyecare, we offer corrective treatment such as eyeglasses and contact lenses for our patients.

How Is Astigmatism Corrected?

In mild cases, our practitioners may prescribe standard glasses or contacts. In more severe cases of astigmatism, your physician will recommend toric lenses or specialty contacts specifically for astigmatism. This option will optimize your vision better than standard lenses. Our Wichita clinic also offers LASIK surgery consultations to help treat astigmatism. During the surgery, the cornea is physically operated on in order to make permanent corrections to the patient's vision. We can ensure you receive professional eye care before and after your surgery. This can help eliminate the need for eyeglasses and contact lenses altogether.

Visit Us for Astigmatism Treatment from Our Optometrists in Wichita, KS

Without treatment, astigmatism only worsens, leading to a decrease in vision. At Child & Family Eyecare, we will discuss what eye care options are right for you. Our team is dedicated to providing our patients the eye care they need at any stage of their lives. If you or a loved one is in need of professional eye care, our Wichita team is here to help. Contact us at (316) 721-8877 to schedule your next eye exam or to learn more about the eye care services we have to offer.