Astigmatism: Symptoms, Eye Tests and Treatment Choices

Astigmatism is a common focusing condition that can make near or distance vision blurred or distorted. It often occurs with short-sightedness or long-sightedness and should be confirmed by an eye examination rather than an online symptom list.

Symptoms and assessment

Possible symptoms include blurred vision, eye strain and headaches after concentrating. Children may not recognise blur, and astigmatism in one eye can affect visual development. Sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, flashes, a new shower of floaters or a curtain-like shadow needs urgent assessment rather than a routine appointment.

An optometrist or ophthalmologist may check visual acuity, refraction, corneal shape and eye health. Astigmatism can sometimes be associated with keratoconus, previous injury, disease or surgery.

Treatment choices

Small amounts may not need treatment. Options can include glasses, contact lenses and, for selected adults after full assessment, laser or lens-based surgery. Contact-lens hygiene is important because poor hygiene can cause infection. Surgery has limitations and complications and is not the best choice for everyone.

The NHS astigmatism guide explains symptoms, eye tests and common treatment choices.

Revitalize assessment checks

Confirm the named contracted eye specialist and hospital, diagnosis, measurements, proposed correction, alternatives, device or lens where relevant, risks, quotation, follow-up and complication plan. See Revitalize’s laser eye surgery information, named doctors and assessment route.