Astigmatism is a common condition that can cause blurry vision — and yes, it can change over time. These changes may happen as the eyes grow, after an injury or surgery, or because of certain eye conditions. For many people, shifts in astigmatism are a normal part of development, but regular eye exams help ensure any changes are tracked and managed so your vision stays clear.
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens isn’t perfectly round. This irregular shape bends light unevenly, which can cause blurred or distorted vision. While some astigmatism changes are part of natural growth, other factors, like eye conditions or injury, can also play a role.
A Simple Look At Astigmatism & Your Vision
What Astigmatism Is
Astigmatism isn’t an eye disease but a common refractive error, much like nearsightedness or farsightedness. It simply describes the shape of your cornea or lens. When the shape isn’t perfectly round, your vision can seem distorted or out of focus.
Common signs of uncorrected astigmatism include:
- Blurry or distorted vision up close and far away
- Headaches, especially after focus-heavy tasks
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Needing to squint to see clearly
These symptoms can overlap with digital eye strain, which is why a complete check-up is helpful. We can offer options for digital eye strain treatment in Langley if your screen time causes discomfort.
How We Check For It
We detect and measure astigmatism during routine eye exams. The process is straightforward and comfortable for adults and children alike. We use different instruments to see how your eyes focus light.
From there, we can determine the exact prescription needed to correct the blurriness. Regular appointments allow us to track any changes to your vision. This helps keep your prescription current and your eyes healthy.
Factors That Can Affect Your Astigmatism
Normal Eye Growth & Development
For many people, astigmatism changes are a natural part of life. A child’s eyes grow and change shape, which can cause their astigmatism to shift. This is a key reason why consistent children’s eye exams are recommended.
These changes often continue through the teenage years and can even occur in adulthood. Most of the time, these shifts are gradual and are not a cause for concern. Regular check-ups help us adjust your prescription as needed.
Certain Eye Conditions
In some cases, an underlying eye condition can cause astigmatism to worsen. A condition called keratoconus, for example, causes the cornea to thin and bulge outward into a cone shape. This progressive change significantly alters astigmatism.
This is not a common condition, but it highlights why monitoring eye health is important. During an eye exam, we look at the entire health of your eye. This helps us identify any issues that may require further attention.
After An Eye Injury or Surgery
Any event that changes the shape of your cornea can affect your astigmatism. An injury to the eye or certain types of eye surgery can alter the cornea’s curvature. This can introduce astigmatism or change your existing prescription.
This is one reason we talk about the importance of protective eyewear. Products like sports safety eyewear in Langley can help prevent injuries that might affect your vision. Your safety is always a priority.
Common Myths About Astigmatism Changes
Screen Time & Your Astigmatism
Many people worry that hours spent on computers or phones can make their astigmatism worse. While extensive screen use won’t change the physical shape of your eye, it can cause significant eye strain. This can make the symptoms of uncorrected astigmatism feel more noticeable.
Practicing good screen habits—like the 20-20-20 rule—can help reduce discomfort. The rule is simple—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a much-needed break from close-up focus.
Squint & Read In Low Light
You may have been told as a child not to read in the dark or to stop squinting. These habits don’t actually cause or worsen astigmatism. They are signs that your eyes are working too hard to focus.
Squinting is a temporary trick your eyes use to try to see more clearly. If you find yourself squinting often, it’s usually a signal that your prescription might need an update. It’s your body’s way of telling you it’s time for an eye exam.
Find The Right Correction For Astigmatism
Eyeglasses For Clear Vision
The most common way to manage astigmatism is with corrective lenses. Glasses are a simple and effective solution for clear, comfortable vision. We can also discuss options for your lenses, like coatings that reduce glare.
Good sunglasses with UV protection are a great way to protect your eyes outdoors. They shield your eyes from harmful rays and reduce squinting in bright light. We can help you find a pair that suits your needs and style.
Toric Contact Lenses
For those who prefer not to wear glasses, there are special toric contact lenses. They are designed specifically for the shape of an eye with astigmatism. This unique design helps them stay in place for consistent clarity.
A proper contact lens fitting in is important for both vision and comfort. We take precise measurements to find a lens that works well for you. We help you learn how to use and care for them properly.
The Role Of Regular Eye Exams
The key to managing astigmatism is to monitor it with regular, comprehensive eye exams. These appointments allow us to update your prescription and track any changes. This is important for your whole family, from young children to seniors.
Support for Lifelong Vision
Astigmatism can change gradually, but with regular check-ups, those changes don’t have to interrupt your daily life. Ongoing eye care makes it easier to keep prescriptions accurate, reduce discomfort, and protect your overall eye health.
At Willoughby Doctors of Optometry, we’re committed to caring for your vision at every stage of life. By getting to know you and your family, we can better understand your unique needs and provide care that feels personal, comfortable, and consistent.
Your eyes will continue to change as the years go by, but having a trusted eye care team by your side can make all the difference. Whether it’s your child’s first exam or maintaining your own clear vision, we’re here to help you feel confident about your eye health.Book your eye exam with Willoughby Doctors of Optometry in Langley today and take the next step toward clear, comfortable vision.
