If your vision has started to blur or feel off, even with your glasses or contacts, it might be more than just eye strain. One of the most common causes of distorted or fuzzy sight is a condition called astigmatism. At Richens Eye Center, we help patients in St. George, Utah, and Mesquite, Nevada, understand what’s going on with their eyes.
Led by Dr. Sharon Richens, a board-certified ophthalmologist and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, our team includes board-certified ophthalmologists and experienced optometrists. They know that catching astigmatism early can make a big difference in how clearly you see each day. The right solution, whether it’s updated lenses or laser correction, depends on your individual needs.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a type of refractive error, similar to nearsightedness or farsightedness. It happens when the front surface of the eye (the cornea) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape. Instead of being round like a basketball, the eye is more shaped like a football. This causes light to focus unevenly on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.
It’s common and treatable, but many people don’t know they have it until they get a comprehensive eye exam.
Common Signs to Watch For
Some people with astigmatism notice symptoms right away. For others, the changes are more gradual. Blurred or distorted vision is the most common sign. You may also experience:
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Headaches after reading or screen use
- Trouble seeing at night
- Squinting often to see clearly
These symptoms can show up at any age, and they don’t always mean you need a stronger glasses prescription.
How Astigmatism Is Treated
At Richens Eye Center, we use precise diagnostic tools to measure and confirm the presence of astigmatism. Depending on the severity and your personal needs, treatment may include glasses, contact lenses, or laser correction. Our practice offers advanced blade-free iLASIK, a type of laser eye surgery that treats astigmatism safely and accurately.
Clearer Vision Starts With a Diagnosis
Astigmatism can cause frustrating vision changes, but it’s manageable with the right care.
Book your exam with Richens Eye Center and let our experts guide you toward clearer sight. Call any of our convenient locations:
- St. George/Downtown: 435-986-2020
- St. George/Sunset: 435-628-1112
- Mesquite, NV: 702-346-2950
- Little Valley: 435-900-3937
