Astigmatism, a common refractive error affecting how light focuses on the retina, is often diagnosed in childhood. But the question many adults with astigmatism, or those newly diagnosed later in life, ponder is: can astigmatism get worse with age? The short answer is yes, though it's not always the case, and the degree to which it worsens varies significantly. Let's explore this further.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Before delving into age-related changes, understanding the root cause of astigmatism is crucial. Astigmatism arises from an irregularly shaped cornea (the clear front part of the eye) or lens. Instead of being perfectly spherical, the cornea or lens might be more oval-shaped, causing light to focus unevenly onto the retina. This uneven focusing leads to blurred vision at all distances.
Can Astigmatism Develop Later in Life?
While astigmatism often develops in childhood, it can also emerge or worsen later in life. This can happen due to several factors:
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Changes in the Cornea's Shape: The cornea's shape can subtly alter over time, particularly as we age. This can be influenced by factors like eye injuries, surgeries, or underlying health conditions. These changes may not be noticeable, but they can impact how light is focused, increasing astigmatism.
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Eye Diseases: Certain eye conditions, such as keratoconus (a progressive thinning of the cornea) or cataracts (clouding of the eye's lens), can significantly affect refractive errors, including astigmatism. These conditions can lead to a noticeable worsening of astigmatism.
How Does Age Affect Existing Astigmatism?
Even if you've had astigmatism for years, its severity can fluctuate with age. Factors contributing to this include:
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Age-Related Changes in the Lens: The eye's lens gradually loses its flexibility with age, a process called presbyopia. This can indirectly affect astigmatism, sometimes making it seem worse or requiring adjustments to correction. Presbyopia primarily affects near vision, while astigmatism affects both near and far vision.
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Underlying Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions can affect eye health, possibly leading to changes in corneal shape or lens clarity, impacting existing astigmatism. It's crucial to maintain regular eye exams, especially if you have pre-existing health issues.
Does Astigmatism Always Get Worse With Age?
It's important to stress that not everyone experiences a worsening of astigmatism with age. For many, the level of astigmatism remains relatively stable throughout adulthood. Regular eye exams are critical for monitoring any changes.
What are the Symptoms of Worsening Astigmatism?
If you notice a change in your vision, such as:
- Increased blurriness at any distance
- Eye strain or headaches
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Frequent squinting
it's essential to consult an ophthalmologist or optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam. These symptoms could indicate a worsening of your astigmatism or another eye condition.
How is Astigmatism Treated?
Treatment options for astigmatism include:
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Eyeglasses: Corrective lenses are often the first line of defense, designed to compensate for the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens.
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Contact Lenses: Contact lenses sit directly on the cornea, providing a sharper image than eyeglasses for some individuals, especially with higher degrees of astigmatism.
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Refractive Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or PRK can permanently correct astigmatism in suitable candidates. However, it is crucial to understand that even with successful refractive surgery, the possibility of changes in corneal shape later in life remains.
How Often Should I Get My Eyes Checked?
The frequency of eye exams depends on your age, overall health, and any existing eye conditions. However, regular checkups, typically annually or bi-annually for adults, are highly recommended to monitor astigmatism and other eye health issues. Early detection of changes allows for timely intervention and management.
In conclusion, while astigmatism can worsen with age in some individuals, it's not a guaranteed progression. Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring any changes and ensuring appropriate management through corrective lenses, contact lenses, or other interventions. Don't hesitate to consult your eye care professional if you notice any changes in your vision.
