Astigmatism

Symptoms include blurred vision to a greater or lesser extent depending on the direction of the objects being looked at. The image formed on the retina is sometimes blurred, sometimes sharp. It is often not possible to distinguish between the letter ‘H’ and ‘M’.

An irregularity in the curvature of the cornea (it is shaped like a rugby ball instead of a football) can be a cause of astigmatism. As a result, the convergence of light rays varies depending on the angle of observation. In this case, the eye does not provide a clear image at every point on the retina. The origin of astigmatism is mainly corneal, but the lens of the eye can also be responsible.

20% of people who have myopia and hyperopia suffer from astigmatism.

Possible solutions include glasses with cylindrical lenses, also called toric lenses, or contact lenses that help restore the correct shape perception and sharpness.