ASTIGMATISM

Astigmatism is the third most common refractive defect connected with our eyesight.It produces distorted images and can appear at birth or develop during our lifetime. Astigmatism does have a solution, as it can be corrected using the Lasik surgical technique, in which a laser is applied.

What is astigmatism ?

It is a refractive defect in the eye, in which perceived images , both near and far, split into two, causing distorted vision. This condition is usually accompanied by myopia or hyperopia and is principally due to congenital disorders although it can also be caused by some injuries as well as certain types of inflammation.

When does it occur ?

In a normal eye, images enter the eye and are focused on the cornea and the crystalline lens in the retina, which then transmit the images to the brain. In an astigmatic eye, an abnormal curvature of the cornea or the crystalline lens prevents rays of light from coinciding at the same point on the retina, which then leads to a distorted vision of the images.

What are the symptoms ?

The most frequent symptoms, apart from the distorted images which have already been mentioned, are eye fatigue and headaches, especially in the evening or at night.

How is astigmatism corrected ?

So that people with this visual refractive defect can see clearly, it is necessary to focus images on the retina and this can be achieved by wearing glasses, contact lenses or with refractive surgery.

What does treatment with refractive surgery consist in ?

The fastest and most efficient treatment and that which allows us to obtain the best results is the LASIK technique, using the Excimer laser. Anesthetic eye drops are applied , it takes only 10 minutes and the patient can return home within the hour.

Who must carry out this type of procedure ?

The success of these procedures depends equally on the technology used and the experience and ability of the ophthalmological surgeon. To avoid unnecessary risks, be sure to choose a center which has a medical team with plenty of experience in laser application for refractive surgery and which has the most innovative technology.