Do you have Astigmatism and ever wondered if it gets worse with age? Astigmatism is a common eye condition that causes blurred vision. It’s not always easy to tell whether your Astigmatism is getting worse as you get older. In this article, we will examine the factors that can contribute to changes in Astigmatism over time and look at some treatment options for Astigmatism.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is an optical condition caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens in the eye. This irregularity affects how light enters the eye and results in distorted vision. Astigmatism usually occurs together with other refractive errors, such as myopia or hyperopia. Astigmatism can occur in both eyes and is often present from birth.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse With Age?
Although Astigmatism does not typically get worse with age, there are several factors that could contribute to an increase in Astigmatism over time. These include:
Aging-Related Changes To The Eye
As we get older, our eyes naturally undergo changes that could affect Astigmatism. For example, the lens of the eye can become less flexible with age, resulting in a decrease in its focusing power which can lead to increased Astigmatism. Additionally, aging-related changes to the cornea may cause more light scatter and a higher Astigmatism.
Changes In Refraction
Changes in refraction can also affect Astigmatism. If the curvature of your cornea or lens changes, it can cause Astigmatism to become worse. This could be due to a number of factors such as disease, trauma, physical deformity, or refractive surgery.
Genetics
Astigmatism is often inherited and family history can play an important role in the development of Astigmatism. It’s possible that Astigmatism may worsen with age if there is a strong genetic component involved.
Treatment For Astigmatism
If you are concerned about your Astigmatism increasing over time, there are several Astigmatism treatment options available that could help. Astigmatism can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or laser surgery.
Glasses
Glasses are often used to correct Astigmatism and improve vision. Glasses typically contain special lenses which are designed to refract light in a way that helps to reduce Astigmatism and sharpen your vision.
Contact Lenses
Contact lenses can also be used to treat Astigmatism. Rigid gas permeable contact lenses are specially designed for Astigmatism and provide sharper vision than soft contacts and eyeglasses. Most types of contact lenses also offer more convenience than glasses as they don’t need to be removed or adjusted constantly.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery is a more permanent option for Astigmatism treatment. This procedure uses laser technology to reshape the cornea and help correct Astigmatism. The results of laser surgery can be long-lasting, but there are risks associated with this type of surgery so it’s important to discuss all options with your eye care professional before undergoing any kind of treatment.
The Bottom Line
Astigmatism does not typically get worse with age, but there are certain factors that could increase Astigmatism over time such as aging-related changes in the eye, changes in refraction, or genetics. If you have Astigmatism and you’re worried about its progression, there are several treatment options available to help improve your vision, including glasses, contact lenses, and laser surgery.
Astigmatism does not typically get worse with age but there are several factors that could contribute to an increase in Astigmatism over time such as aging-related changes in the eye, changes in refraction, or genetics.
Yes, Astigmatism can be treated with a variety of different options such as glasses, contact lenses or laser surgery. It’s important to discuss all available treatment options with your eye care professional before undergoing any kind of treatment.
Astigmatism is often inherited and family history can play an important role in the development of Astigmatism. It’s possible that Astigmatism may worsen with age if there is a strong genetic component involved.
