Astigmatism can cause blurry vision and make tasks like driving and reading challenging. At ABC Vision Source, which serves Sherwood, Hillsboro, and Portland, OR, we offer eye exams to diagnose astigmatism and provide treatment that can help you see clearly. Prior to visiting us, learn more about the symptoms of astigmatism and how it is treated below:
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism occurs when the lens or cornea of eye isn't shaped like a globe but more like a football. As a result, when light enters your pupil, it scatters throughout the eye rather than landing on the retina and causes items that are far and sometimes near to appear blurry.
Signs of Astigmatism
You may notice your vision is distorted or blurry when you look at objects far away. Astigmatism can also affect your ability to see up close as well. Along with that, you might also struggle to see at night and experience glare from the light. Since astigmatism causes difficulty with your vision, it can lead to eye strain, headaches, and frequent squinting.
Diagnosing Astigmatism
When you visit our optometrist, you will have a vision screening. During your appointment, you'll look into a specialized device that will display letters of varying sizes in various lines. You'll need to read a specific line and identify which one you can see the best. The results will help determine which prescription lenses or glasses your need to improve your vision.
The next portion of the exam will test for astigmatism. You will be given to images to look at and you will need to identify which one looks clearer. After, our optometrists will provide another two images and you’ll need to decide which one appears clearer. Based on the results of your test, we can determine if you have astigmatism and its severity.
Treatment
Once you receive a diagnosis for astigmatism, our optometrists can provide a prescription for contact lenses or eyeglasses. You may need specialized contact lenses or toric lenses if you have a severe case of astigmatism, which have a specific shape and are weighted at the bottom to stay in place. While the refractive error is typically treated with contacts or glasses, we can also discuss LASIK surgery with you and offer a referral.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If you have symptoms of astigmatism, our team at ABC Vision Source in Sherwood, Hillsboro, and Portland, OR, is happy to help. After we evaluate your eyes, we can provide the necessary treatment that will help you achieve sharper vision. To schedule your appointment, contact our Sherwood office at (503) 625-5599, our Hillsboro office at (503) 649-7566, or our Portland location at (503) 473-8039 today!