By Dr. Itua Enakhe (OD)
Astigmatism is one of the most common refractive errors worldwide, affecting people of all ages. Despite its prevalence, many people experience symptoms without fully understanding its causes and effects. Astigmatism can significantly impact the quality of life if left uncorrected, causing blurred or distorted vision.
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic in Ikeja, Lagos, our role as optometrists is to accurately diagnose astigmatism, explain its effects, and provide personalized treatment options that improve visual clarity and comfort.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is irregularly shaped—more oval or rugby-ball shaped rather than evenly curved like a football. This uneven curvature prevents light from focusing on a single point on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.
Astigmatism can:
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Vary in severity
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Coexist with other vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness)
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Be congenital or develop from injury, surgery, or aging
How Is Astigmatism Diagnosed at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja?
Our diagnostic process involves a comprehensive eye exam that includes:
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Refraction Test: Determines your precise prescription to correct blurred or distorted vision using a phoropter and various lenses.
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Keratometry/Corneal Topography: Measures the cornea’s curvature to map the irregularities causing astigmatism. Corneal topography offers a detailed surface map.
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Visual Acuity Test: Assesses sharpness of vision at different distances to evaluate how astigmatism affects your sight.
These tests allow us to tailor the best treatment option for your unique visual needs.
Treatment Options for Astigmatism
1. Eyeglasses: A Simple, Effective Solution
Glasses with cylindrical lenses correct the cornea’s irregular shape by compensating for its axis, allowing light to focus properly. They may also include spherical lenses if combined with other refractive errors.
Ideal for mild to moderate astigmatism, eyeglasses are non-invasive and available in many styles.
2. Contact Lenses: Clear Vision Without Frames
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Toric Contact Lenses: Specifically designed for astigmatism, available in soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) types.
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Scleral Lenses: For more severe or irregular astigmatism, these large lenses rest on the sclera, providing a smooth optical surface.
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Hybrid Lenses: Combine soft lens comfort with rigid lens clarity, suitable for moderate astigmatism needing stability.
Proper fitting and regular professional check-ups ensure comfort and eye health.
3. Refractive Surgery: A More Permanent Fix
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LASIK: Uses laser to reshape the cornea for correct light focus; quick recovery and effective for moderate cases.
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PRK: Removes the outer corneal layer for laser reshaping, suited for thin corneas or patients ineligible for LASIK.
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SMILE: Minimally invasive laser surgery removing small corneal tissue for correction; offers faster healing with fewer risks.
Surgery is suitable for stable prescriptions after thorough evaluation.
4. Orthokeratology: Non-Surgical Temporary Correction
Wear specially designed rigid lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, allowing clear vision during the day without glasses or contacts. Best for mild astigmatism.
Why Treat Astigmatism?
Untreated astigmatism may cause:
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Eye strain and headaches
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Blurred vision and difficulty seeing in low light
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Visual fatigue affecting reading, driving, and computer work
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Learning difficulties in children due to poor vision
Early diagnosis and treatment improve vision quality and overall lifestyle.
FAQs on Astigmatism at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja
Q: Can astigmatism worsen over time?
A: It may change but often remains stable; regular eye exams monitor any progression.
Q: Can children be treated for astigmatism?
A: Yes, early correction is crucial to avoid vision problems affecting learning.
Q: Are contact lenses comfortable for astigmatism?
A: With proper fitting, contact lenses designed for astigmatism like toric lenses are comfortable and effective.
Q: Is refractive surgery safe?
A: When performed by an experienced specialist after a thorough exam, surgery is generally safe and successful.
Q: How often should I get my eyes checked?
A: Annually or as recommended by your eye care provider, especially if you have refractive errors.
📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja
Ile-Oja Mall, Opebi Link Road, Ikeja.
📞 0703 839 1197
📍Learn More
Our 5 steps eye test process explained in more detail.