astigmatism

Astigmatism is a condition where parts of the eye curve more sharply in one direction than they do in another. This means the eye cannot form a sharp image at any distance. It is usually treated with special lenses with some 'cylinder curve.

Why do I have astigmatism?

There is usually a family tendency towards having astigmatism although it often develops at the same time as myopia as the eyeball changes shape.

What can I do about astigmatism?

It is difficult to do anything about astigmatism on its own but if it developed with myopia it will usually improve as the the myopia is reduced. (see myopia)

'Maggie Gold, 53, from West Hampstead, London, is a partner in a property development company and has been using the pinhole glasses for more than five years. Last year an optician told her that she no longer needed to wear spectacles as her eyesight has returned to a healthy 20/20 vision.' She says: "I began wearing the alternative glasses when I was doing close work or reading a book as my vision was blurring over. I already had short sightedness and astigmatism and had been wearing glasses for 20 years.''
Daily Mail (1/07/97) - 'Pinhole glasses put my eyesight back into focus'