What causes astigmatism to worsen

Overview

Astigmatism is a common vision condition that causes blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape. This irregularity prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Instead of a single, sharply focused image, light is focused at multiple points, resulting in a blurred or stretched image at all distances.

Many people have some degree of astigmatism, and it often doesn't cause significant problems. However, when astigmatism is moderate to severe, or when it changes over time, it can lead to noticeable vision impairment. Understanding what causes astigmatism to worsen is crucial for managing vision health and seeking appropriate care.

What Causes Astigmatism to Worsen?

The primary reason astigmatism worsens is often its natural, progressive nature. Like other refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism can change throughout a person's life. The progression is most pronounced during periods of growth and development, particularly in childhood and adolescence.

Genetic Predisposition

Genetics is a major factor in the development and progression of astigmatism. If one or both of your parents have astigmatism, you are more likely to develop it and experience its worsening. Family history is a strong indicator of potential refractive errors, including astigmatism.

Age and Growth

The eyes are constantly developing and changing, especially during childhood and teenage years. During these formative periods, the cornea and lens can change shape, leading to an increase in astigmatism. It is common for prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses to need adjustments annually or bianquially for young individuals with progressing astigmatism. While progression typically slows down or stabilizes in adulthood, it can occasionally continue into the late twenties or even later.

Eye Strain and Visual Habits

While not a direct cause of the structural changes in the eye that define astigmatism, prolonged or intense eye strain can potentially contribute to the perception of worsening vision or exacerbate symptoms. Activities that require sustained close-up focus, such as reading, using computers, or playing video games for extended periods without breaks, can lead to eye fatigue, headaches, and discomfort. Some theories suggest that chronic eye strain might influence the eye's shape over time, though this is not as well-established as genetic or developmental factors. However, maintaining good visual hygiene, such as taking regular breaks and ensuring proper lighting, is always recommended for eye comfort.

Corneal Conditions

In some cases, worsening astigmatism can be linked to specific conditions affecting the cornea. Conditions like keratoconus, a progressive eye disorder where the cornea thins and bulges outward into a cone shape, can cause significant and rapid changes in vision, including severe astigmatism. Other corneal diseases or injuries can also alter the cornea's shape and lead to an increase in astigmatism.

Post-Surgical Changes

Following certain eye surgeries, such as cataract surgery or refractive surgery (like LASIK), changes in the cornea's shape can occur. While refractive surgeries aim to correct vision, they can sometimes lead to induced astigmatism or changes in pre-existing astigmatism. Similarly, complications or healing processes after other eye surgeries might influence corneal shape and affect astigmatism.

When to See an Eye Doctor

It's important to monitor your vision and attend regular eye check-ups, especially if you have known astigmatism or a family history of refractive errors. You should consult an eye care professional if you experience any of the following:

• Sudden changes in vision
• Increased blurriness or distortion
• Frequent headaches or eye strain
• Difficulty seeing at night
• A significant change in your prescription

An optometrist or ophthalmologist can diagnose astigmatism, determine its cause, monitor its progression, and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses) or, in some cases, refractive surgery.

Management and Treatment

The management of astigmatism depends on its severity and whether it is progressing. For mild astigmatism, no treatment may be necessary. For more significant astigmatism, corrective lenses are the most common solution. These include:

• Eyeglasses: Custom-made lenses designed to correct the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens.
• Contact Lenses: Soft toric lenses or rigid gas permeable lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism.

In cases where astigmatism is worsening significantly or causing substantial vision problems, refractive surgery might be an option. Procedures like LASIK or PRK reshape the cornea to improve focus. However, the suitability for surgery depends on individual eye health and the stability of the astigmatism.