Astigmatism

Astigmatism means your eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football, so light is focused at more than 1 place in the eye. The main symptoms of astigmatism are: blurred vision headaches eye strain – you may notice this after concentrating for a long time, such as when using a computer Astigmatism normally happens alongside short-sightedness or long-sightedness . Astigmatism in 1 eye may cause lazy eye (where the vision does not develop properly). It's important this is spotted early so it can be treated. Astigmatism may also affect your child's reading or concentration.

Astigmatism does not always need to be treated, but possible treatments can include glasses, contact lenses and laser surgery. Pros and cons of different astigmatism treatments Treatment Pros Cons Treatment Glasses Pros the cheapest option may be available free or discounted on the NHS Cons could get lost or broken Treatment Contact lenses Pros choice of soft or hard lenses can be a good choice if you're active may be free or discounted on the NHS Cons may not be suitable for everyone risk of eye infection through poor contact lens hygiene Treatment Laser eye or lens surgery Pros may be permanent may be better for people with more severe vision problems Cons risk of complications during or after surgery not available on the NHS can be expensive possible side effects