Astigmatism: Understanding Blurred Vision at All Distances
- The Straits Eye Centre
- Sep 19
- 4 min read
Introduction: Why Astigmatism Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Astigmatism is a common refractive condition that affects people of all ages. Unlike myopia or hyperopia, where vision is blurry at specific distances, astigmatism causes distorted or blurred vision both near and far. In Singapore, astigmatism is frequently diagnosed in children during school screenings and in adults who experience headaches or difficulty focusing.
Because astigmatism often occurs alongside myopia or hyperopia, it can be overlooked. However, untreated astigmatism can cause eye strain, poor academic performance in children, and reduced quality of life in adults. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and management options ensures timely care and clear vision.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (front surface of the eye) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape. Instead of being evenly curved like a basketball, it is shaped more like a rugby ball. This uneven curvature prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted images.
Key facts about astigmatism:
It can occur on its own or with myopia or hyperopia.
It is not an eye disease but a refractive condition.
Both children and adults can develop astigmatism.
Causes of Astigmatism
Genetics: Astigmatism often runs in families.
Eye structure: Uneven corneal or lens curvature.
Associated conditions: May occur after eye surgery, injury, or corneal disease.
Age: Both children and adults can develop astigmatism, though it is often detected early in life.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
Astigmatism symptoms can vary in severity, but they often include:
Blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
Frequent squinting.
Headaches or eye strain, especially after reading.
Difficulty with night vision or glare sensitivity.
Children may show poor attention in class due to vision difficulties.
Risks of Untreated Astigmatism
If not properly managed, astigmatism may lead to:
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): Especially if astigmatism is unequal between eyes in children.
Academic difficulties: Poor visual clarity affects concentration and learning.
Chronic eye strain: Leading to headaches and discomfort in adults.
Reduced quality of life: Difficulty with tasks such as driving, reading, or computer use.
Astigmatism in Children
Children with astigmatism may not complain of blurry vision, as they adapt by squinting or moving closer to objects. This makes early screening crucial.
Management in children includes:
Prescription glasses with cylindrical correction.
Regular follow-ups to adjust prescriptions as the child grows.
Monitoring for amblyopia or strabismus.
Astigmatism in Adults
Adults often notice symptoms of astigmatism when near work becomes more demanding or when driving at night.
Management in adults includes:
Glasses or contact lenses with cylindrical correction.
Toric contact lenses designed specifically for astigmatism.
Refractive surgery options such as SMILE, PRK, or ICL for suitable candidates.
Safe Management Options for Astigmatism
Spectacles: Most common correction for children and adults.
Contact Lenses: Toric lenses correct irregular curvature.
Refractive Surgery: Laser procedures (SMILE, PRK) or ICLs for adults.
Lifestyle Support: Proper posture, breaks during screen use, and good lighting.
Lifestyle and Prevention Tips
Schedule regular eye screenings from childhood.
Encourage outdoor play for children to balance visual habits.
Use the 20-20-20 rule to reduce strain during near work.
Ensure good lighting when reading or working.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is astigmatism the same as myopia?
No. Myopia causes blurred distance vision, while astigmatism causes distortion at all distances due to irregular corneal curvature.
2. Can astigmatism be cured?
Astigmatism cannot be cured, but it can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
3. At what age can astigmatism be detected?
It can be detected in children as young as preschool age through eye screenings.
4. How do I know if my child has astigmatism?
Look for signs such as squinting, tilting the head, or complaints of blurred vision.
5. What are toric contact lenses?
Toric lenses are specially designed contact lenses that correct astigmatism.
6. Can astigmatism get worse with age?
Yes, it may progress or change with age, requiring updated prescriptions.
7. Can refractive surgery fix astigmatism permanently?
Refractive surgery can correct the irregular curvature, but suitability depends on individual eye health.
8. Is astigmatism common in Singapore?
Yes, astigmatism is frequently diagnosed in both children and adults in Singapore.
Meet Our Specialist
At The Straits Eye Centre, your vision care is in the hands of a dedicated team of experienced ophthalmologists. Each of our doctors brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to delivering thorough, patient-focused care for all ages. Whether you need advanced cataract surgery, paediatric eye management, or treatment for complex eye conditions, our team works together to provide the same attentive care we would want for our own families.
Dr Audrey Pang
Consultant Eye Surgeon
Special interest: Paediatric Ophthalmology, Myopia Control, Amblyopia, Strabismus Trained at the University of Cambridge and fellowship-trained in the UK, Dr Audrey Pang specialises in children’s eye care and adult strabismus. She has held roles at Tan Tock Seng Hospital and serves as Visiting Consultant at TTSH and NUH, offering gentle, evidence-based care for patients of all ages.
Cost, Medisave, and Insurance
Many procedures at The Straits Eye Centre are eligible for Medisave claims under MOH guidelines, and certain insurance plans may cover part or all of your treatment costs. Our patient care team will guide you through eligibility, claim limits, and paperwork, so you can focus on your recovery. For more details, refer to our Medisave & Insurance Guide.
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