Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common focusing difference that can affect clarity at distance and near.
On this page
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism occurs when the eye's focusing surfaces do not have the same curvature in every direction. Light is then focused differently across orientations, which can make detail look blurred or stretched.
A careful clinical boundary
Astigmatism is a focusing description, not a diagnosis of a particular eye disease. A meaningful change or irregular pattern needs professional interpretation.
- Blurred or distorted detail at distance or near
- Squinting to sharpen text or signs
- Visual tiredness during sustained tasks
- Halos or streaking around lights, especially in low light
- A contact lens that rotates or gives variable clarity
- Astigmatism varies in amount and cause and can occur with myopia or hyperopia.
- A refraction can establish whether correcting astigmatism improves clarity.
- New, changing or irregular astigmatism may need additional corneal or eye-health assessment.
What may be considered.
- 01
Distance and near vision
- 02
Refraction and the axis and amount of astigmatism
- 03
Eye health and the corneal surface
- 04
Stability compared with previous prescriptions
- 05
Lens movement, rotation and vision for current contact-lens wearers
The next step depends on what the assessment finds.
Spectacle correction
Spectacle lenses can usually correct regular astigmatism accurately. A short adaptation period may be noticed after a meaningful prescription change.Learn about spectacle correctionContact-lens correction
Soft toric, rigid or custom contact lenses may be considered depending on prescription, eye health, corneal shape and practical needs. Current specialist options at the practice require confirmation.Learn about contact-lens correctionWhen the pattern is irregular
If the corneal surface is irregular, an ordinary spectacle or soft-lens prescription may not correct all distortion. Further measurement or a specialist-lens assessment may be useful.Learn about irregular corneasFrequently asked questions
These answers are general. An individual assessment is needed for advice about your own eyes, prescription or lenses.
Is astigmatism an eye disease?
Astigmatism is usually a common focusing difference. Some changing or irregular patterns can be associated with a corneal condition, which is why assessment matters.
Can I wear contact lenses with astigmatism?
Many people can. The appropriate design depends on prescription, eye shape, health, comfort and how stable the lens is on the eye.
Can astigmatism change?
Yes. Prescriptions can change over time. A clinician should assess an unexpected or substantial change rather than assuming the cause.
Check blurred or distorted vision
A comprehensive examination can determine whether astigmatism is contributing to your symptoms.