Astigmatism, a common refractive error affecting the eye's shape, often sparks the question: does it worsen with age? While astigmatism itself doesn't typically progress significantly in adulthood, its impact on vision can change throughout life. Understanding this nuance is crucial for managing eye health and vision correction.
What is Astigmatism?
Before diving into age-related changes, let's briefly define astigmatism. It occurs when the cornea (the eye's clear front surface) or lens isn't perfectly spherical, leading to blurred vision at all distances. Instead of focusing light evenly onto the retina, the irregular shape causes light to focus on multiple points, resulting in a distorted image. Symptoms can include blurry vision, eye strain, headaches, and squinting.
Does Astigmatism Get Worse With Age? The Complex Answer
The simple answer is: not usually. The degree of astigmatism you have is generally established during childhood and adolescence. Significant changes in astigmatism after the age of 20-25 are less common. However, the perception of astigmatism or its impact on your vision can change with age.
Why the Perception of Astigmatism Might Change
Several factors can influence how astigmatism affects your vision as you age:
-
Presbyopia: This age-related condition affects everyone and causes the lens to lose its flexibility, making it difficult to focus on nearby objects. The combined effects of presbyopia and astigmatism can lead to more noticeable blurry vision at near distances. You might need different corrective lenses to compensate.
-
Other Eye Conditions: Age-related eye conditions such as cataracts can further impact vision, even if the astigmatism itself remains stable. Cataract surgery often addresses both the cataract and any existing astigmatism.
-
Changes in Corneal Shape: While rare, significant changes in corneal shape can occur due to injury, disease, or certain medical conditions. These are not typical age-related changes, but they can affect astigmatism.
How is Astigmatism Measured and Corrected?
Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring astigmatism and overall eye health. During an eye exam, an optometrist or ophthalmologist uses several tests, including a retinoscopy and an autorefractor, to precisely measure the amount and type of astigmatism present.
Correction options typically involve:
-
Eyeglasses: These are the most common method, with lenses specifically designed to compensate for the irregular curvature of the cornea.
-
Contact Lenses: Contact lenses sit directly on the eye's surface, offering more precise correction, particularly for high astigmatism. Toric contact lenses are specifically designed for astigmatism.
-
Refractive Surgery (LASIK, etc.): This surgical procedure reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors, including astigmatism.
Can Astigmatism Develop Later in Life?
While it's less common, it is possible to develop astigmatism later in life due to eye injury, disease, or certain medical conditions. It's crucial to report any sudden changes in vision to your eye care professional immediately.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Astigmatism's causes are often genetic, but it can also be caused by:
- Inherited Traits: A family history of astigmatism increases the risk.
- Corneal Irregularities: These irregularities can result from birth defects or injuries.
- Eye Diseases: Some eye conditions can influence corneal shape, leading to astigmatism.
When Should I See an Eye Doctor?
Regular comprehensive eye exams are recommended, regardless of whether you have astigmatism. Schedule an appointment if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Blurred vision
- Eye strain
- Headaches
- Squinting
In conclusion, while the underlying degree of astigmatism rarely worsens significantly with age, the effects of astigmatism on vision can change due to other age-related eye conditions like presbyopia. Regular eye exams remain paramount for effective management and timely intervention if needed.
