Astigmatism Treatment in Des Plaines, IL

Parts of eyes are curved in order to aid with focus and the refraction of light. This primarily happens through the cornea and lens, the outermost parts of the eyeball. However, for various reasons, the cornea or lens may not be perfectly curved. This leads to blurry vision and the condition known as astigmatism. Astigmatism is one of the most common eye health problems worldwide.

Thankfully, astigmatism is very treatable. Request more information about astigmatism today: Call (847) 824-3127 or contact Dr. James Katz online.

Astigmatism Causes

Astigmatism occurs when the lens or cornea is not perfectly curved. These parts of the eye can be either too flat or too curved, which interferes with how light is focused in the eye. Astigmatism is considered a refractive error. Most people who deal with astigmatism have it from birth, but it can stem from eye injury or other diseases as well.

Astigmatism often occurs in unison with other refractive errors such as:

• Myopia (nearsightedness)
• Hyperopia (farsightedness)
• Presbyopia

Other risk factors increase a person's likeliness for dealing with astigmatism as well. These include:

• Family history
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Eye injury
• Failed eye surgery
• Glaucoma
• Inflammation

Astigmatism Symptoms

The symptoms of astigmatism typically involve a reduction in quality of vision. This is due to the fact that light is being refracted to the back or front of the eye, instead of directly to the retina. Common signs or symptoms of astigmatism include:

• Blurry vision
• Distorted vision
• Eyestrain
• Headaches

Although astigmatism is considered a relatively minor condition, it can make vision difficult. Nearly every single case of astigmatism can be dramatically improved with the right treatment.

Astigmatism Treatment

Treatment for astigmatism begins with a thorough eye exam. Most cases of astigmatism are detected in childhood, although it is possible to develop the condition later in life. Treatments are generally broken in to two categories: assistive vision devices and surgery.

Assistive devices for astigmatism include:

• Prescription eyeglasses
• Prescription contacts

The solutions above work by refracting light to the correct part of the eye. For serious cases of astigmatism, or those who wish to reduce dependence on glasses and contacts, surgery may be the preferred option. Surgery for astigmatism falls under refractive eye surgery.

Surgical options for astigmatism include:

• Laser-assisted in-situ keramileusis (LASIK)
• Laser-assisted subepithelial keratomileusis (LASEK)
• Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)

These treatments work by actually reshaping the cornea or lens in order to correct the issue. Ultimately, both treatment options are effective. Choosing the correct one depends on the individual case and the needs of the patient.

Request Astigmatism Information Now

Astigmatism can be treated easily, safely and effectively through surgery or non-invasive methods. Request more information about treatment for astigmatism today: call (847) 824-3127 or contact Dr. James Katz online.