When Should You See an Eye Doctor for Astigmatism?

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Noticing that your vision isn't quite right could be a sign of astigmatism, a common condition that distorts your visual perception. At Eye Specialists of Napa Valley, we are committed to helping our patients understand and manage their eye health, particularly when it comes to astigmatism treatment. Here's what you need to know about recognizing when to seek professional advice. If you find yourself needing help, contact our facility in Napa, CA.

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism results from an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, which affects how light is focused onto the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision. This condition often coexists with other refractive errors.

What are the signs that you might have astigmatism?

If you're experiencing any of the following issues, they could be signs of astigmatism, indicating it's time to consult an eye care professional. Common astigmatism symptoms include:

  • Blurred vision: Difficulty seeing details at any distance.
  • Difficulty seeing at night: Challenges with night vision, especially while driving.
  • Eyestrain: Frequent discomfort or fatigue in the eyes after reading, using a computer, or any activity that requires focused vision.
  • Headaches: Recurring headaches stemming from eye strain and the effort required to focus with astigmatism.
  • Squinting: The need to squint frequently to see clearly.

Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to a timely diagnosis and effective management of astigmatism. If you're experiencing any of these signs, don't hesitate to reach out to Eye Specialists of Napa Valley for a comprehensive eye examination.

How is astigmatism diagnosed?

At our Napa, CA center, a thorough eye examination helps us diagnose astigmatism. By using techniques like refraction tests and keratometry, we can accurately measure the shape and curvature of your cornea, determining the presence and severity of astigmatism.

Can children have astigmatism?

Many people wonder if their children can have astigmatism. The answer is yes. Children can also show signs of astigmatism, which may even be noticeable from birth. In fact, some research suggests it could be genetic. Since vision problems can significantly impact learning and development, observing children for signs such as squinting, tilting the head, or sitting too close to the television is essential. These could be early indicators of astigmatism.

What treatments are available for astigmatism?

Our primary goal in astigmatism treatment is to correct the uneven curvature of the cornea. Common treatments include prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. For those seeking a more lasting solution, surgical options may be available to reshape the cornea to remove astigmatism.

How often should you visit your eye doctor?

Regular visits to your eye doctor are crucial, especially for managing conditions like astigmatism. Annual eye exams are recommended to monitor and adjust any vision correction measures and to keep tabs on any changes in eye health.

Get astigmatism treatment in Napa, CA

At Eye Specialists of Napa Valley, we strive to provide exceptional care for patients with astigmatism in Napa, CA. If you're experiencing any astigmatism symptoms or have concerns about your vision, please contact us. Early detection and treatment are crucial for effectively managing astigmatism and maintaining optimal eye health. Schedule your visit today for clearer, healthier vision tomorrow.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.