What is Astigmatism?

First. Astigmatism is quite common. 75% of us have astigmatism. That is, most of us have some small amount. Often, in smaller amounts, astigmatism doesn't cause problems and requires no correction. However, in larger amounts, astigmatism can cause blurry vision both close up and far away. 

Astigmatism means that the cornea, the front of the eye, is warped. It's not a disease and does not cause blindness but the warped cornea causes distorted vision that can result in headaches and eye strain. It's easily corrected with spectacles but soft contacts won't correct for astigmatism. However, rigid gas permeable contact lenses and soft toric lenses will work.

Also, LASIK can correct for astigmatism. 

Often, a young person and some adults with significant astigmatism will pass a vision screening. Another reason why yearly eye exams are important starting at school age.

Schedule your family’s eye exams with Dr Boyer Optometrist 

Why does Grampa need reading glasses?

A normal aging change that affects everyone is presbyopia. Presbyopia means old eyes. It is the loss of focusing of the crystalline lens in the eye. Sometimes confused with far sightedness or hyperopia it is something different. With hyperopia the eye works harder to focus a near object but it is able to focus. With presbyopia the eye is unable to focus. That's why Grampa needs reading glasses. Presbyopia typically begins around 40 and gradually gets worse as you approach your fifties. It usually levels off around 60. It can be corrected with glasses. Traditionally bifocals or reading glasses were used. Now there are other options. Today most people use progressive addition glasses or PAL's. PAL's have no lines. They look like regular glasses. PAL's have gotten quite sophisticated and work well for all vision tasks. Multifocal contact lenses are also available. Mono vision contacts or LASIK is an option. Presbyopia is another reason to get a regular eye exam. When you get your eyes checked ask your eye doctor about the the new options available for old eyes that keep you looking younger.

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Dr Boyer Optometrist