Myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism are two common refractive errors that affect how light enters your eye. Both can lead to vision difficulties.
Although these eye conditions may seem similar, they actually have different causes and require somewhat different approaches to management.
At Total Vision Novado, our skilled optometrists offer personalized solutions to help address common vision concerns and support both your eye health and visual comfort. Let’s dive into what distinguishes myopia from astigmatism and discuss how these conditions can be managed effectively.
What is Myopia?
Also known as nearsightedness, myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. This occurs when the eye is too long or the cornea (the eye’s outer layer) is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly onto it. Myopia often begins in childhood and often continues to progress until early adulthood.
Common signs of myopia include:
- Squinting to see distant objects
- Difficulty reading road signs
- Headaches from eye strain
- Holding books or screens closer than normal
What is Astigmatism?
LIke myopia, astigmatism is a refractive error, but rather than affecting distance vision, it causes blurred vision at all distances. Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Instead of being perfectly round, like a basketball, the cornea may be shaped more like a football, causing light to scatter through the eye rather than focusing directly on the retina.
Symptoms of astigmatism often include:
- Blurry or distorted vision at all distances
- Eye discomfort or strain
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Frequent squinting
Are Myopia and Astigmatism the Same?
Myopia affects how well you see far away, whereas astigmatism causes general blurriness regardless of distance. Both involve issues with how light is refracted or bent as it enters the eye, but they do so in different ways.
Myopia occurs when the eye’s shape causes light to focus in front of the retina. With astigmatism, the irregular shape of the cornea causes multiple focal points to form either in front of or behind the retina, leading to distorted vision. It’s entirely possible for someone to have both conditions.
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes of Myopia
The exact cause of myopia is not fully understood, but genetics play a significant role. If one or both parents are nearsighted, there’s a higher chance their children will be too.
Environmental factors, such as prolonged close-up activities like reading or screen time, can also contribute to the development of myopia, especially in children.
Causes of Astigmatism
Astigmatism is usually caused by an irregularly shaped cornea, but it can also result from an irregularly shaped lens inside the eye. Most people with astigmatism are born with the condition, so genetics plays a big role, but astigmatism can also be caused by eye injuries or surgery/
Diagnosing Myopia and Astigmatism
Routine eye exams are essential for detecting these conditions. During an exam, an optometrist or ophthalmologist will conduct various tests to determine how light is refracted by the eye. This may include:
- Visual acuity tests: Reading letters from a chart to assess how well you can see at different distances.
- Keratometry: Measuring the curvature of the cornea to detect astigmatism.
- Retinoscopy: Using a light to see how it reflects off the retina, helping to determine the prescription needed for glasses or contacts. This approach is often used for patients like very small children who can’t provide subjective judgments about which lenses correct their vision most effectively.
Treatment Options
Glasses and Contact Lenses
For most people, glasses and contact lenses are the simplest and most effective way to correct both myopia and astigmatism. Lenses are tailored to each patient’s prescription, ensuring that light focuses on the retina.
Myopia Control
Myopia control involves a range of treatments designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness, particularly in children. These treatments aim to manage myopia’s development and reduce future vision complications. Some common options for myopia control include special contact lenses and atropine eye drops.
While these treatments can be effective for many children, it’s important to note that the same options may not be available for managing astigmatism, as it affects vision differently.
Refractive Surgery
LASIK, PRK, and other refractive surgeries can be an option for adults who want a more permanent solution. These procedures reshape the cornea, correcting how light enters the eye. While surgery can be effective, it may not be suitable for everyone, and potential risks should be discussed with a qualified eye care professional.
Living with Myopia and Astigmatism
Having myopia or astigmatism doesn’t have to limit your daily activities. With proper correction, most people with these conditions can enjoy clear vision and a full range of activities. Regular eye exams are crucial, as they allow your eye care professional to monitor changes in your vision and update your prescription as needed.
Get Your Eye Exam Today
From corrective lenses to potential surgical options, there are several effective ways to address these refractive errors. Regular eye exams are key to monitoring and adjusting your vision care needs.
For personalized solutions and expert guidance, the team at Total Vision Novato is here to support your journey to a clearer, more comfortable vision. Visit us today!
