Astigmatism | Symptoms & Causes
What are the symptoms of astigmatism?
If a child has astigmatism, objects close to them and far away may appear blurry or distorted.
Other symptoms include:
- squinting
- eyestrain
- headache
What causes astigmatism?
Astigmatism is caused by an abnormal curvature of the cornea that changes the way light enters the eye and travels to the retina. The retina is a light-sensitive area at the back of the eye that converts light into signals for the brain. In a healthy eye, light reaches the retina as a single focal point. With astigmatism, the retina receives light in multiple focal points, causing objects up close and at a distance to appear blurry.
Researchers do not know why some children have astigmatism. The condition tends to run in families, and children with myopia or hyperopia are at higher risk of astigmatism. Smoking during pregnancy may increase the chance that a child will have astigmatism.
Astigmatism | Diagnosis & Treatments
How is astigmatism diagnosed?
Starting at about 6 months, children should have regular eye exams to catch conditions like astigmatism, myopia, and hyperopia. An eye doctor (ophthalmologist) will examine the child’s eyes and measure the shape of the corneas. When the child is old enough, the eye doctor will test their ability to focus on objects up close, middle distance, and far away.
How is astigmatism treated?
Most mild cases of astigmatism can be corrected with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. In children with astigmatism, eyeglasses tend to work better than contact lenses.
In some cases, the child’s eye doctor may suggest a procedure called corneal cross linking to prevent the condition from progressing further. This procedure increases the rigidity of the cornea so that it does not become more misshapen over time.
How we care for astigmatism
The Department of Ophthalmology at Boston Children's Hospital offers the latest and best in diagnostics and care for children with vision problems, no matter how simple or complex. Children and families come from around the world for the most advanced vision testing, diagnostics, and treatment available for of all types of visual impairments.