Astigmatism is one of the most common vision problems we see at our Scottsdale eye clinic, yet many of our patients don’t realize they have it until they visit us for their annual eye exam. If you’ve been struggling with blurry or distorted vision, you may be wondering: Do I need glasses for astigmatism? The answer depends on the severity of your condition and your specific visual needs. Below, our Scottsdale eye care team at Doctor My Eyes explore how astigmatism affects vision, what it looks like, and the best ways to correct it.
Astigmatism: What Does It Look Like?
People with astigmatism often describe their vision as blurry or distorted, almost as if they’re looking through a warped or wavy lens. Instead of a single, clear focal point, objects may appear stretched, shadowed, or even doubled.
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape. Instead of being perfectly round, the eye’s surface is shaped more like a football, causing light to bend unevenly as it enters the eye. This results in images that are not sharply focused, making it difficult to see clearly at any distance.
If you’ve ever wondered, “How do people with astigmatism see?” imagine looking at text that appears slightly smeared or headlights at night that seem to have halos or streaks. These visual distortions can make daily tasks like reading, driving, and using digital screens more challenging.
How to Correct Astigmatism 
The good news is that astigmatism is highly treatable. The most common ways to correct astigmatism include:
1. Glasses
Prescription eyeglasses with special cylindrical lenses help compensate for the uneven curvature of the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. If you have mild to moderate astigmatism, glasses can provide clear, comfortable vision with minimal adjustment.
2. Contact Lenses
For those who prefer not to wear glasses, toric contact lenses are designed to correct astigmatism by aligning with the irregular shape of the eye. These lenses offer a wider field of vision and can be an excellent alternative for active individuals.
Some patients with higher levels of astigmatism may benefit from rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or hybrid lenses, which provide sharper vision by reshaping the cornea while worn.
3. LASIK and Other Vision Correction Procedures
For individuals looking for a long-term solution, LASIK surgery and other refractive procedures can permanently correct astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. Not everyone is a candidate for surgery, so it’s important to consult with an experienced eye doctor to determine if this option is right for you.
4. Lifestyle and Eye Exercises
While glasses and contact lenses are the primary ways to correct astigmatism, some people find that reducing eye strain and following proper screen usage habits can help manage symptoms. Taking breaks from screens, adjusting lighting, and using anti-glare coatings on lenses can all contribute to more comfortable vision.
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
If you’re experiencing persistent blurry vision, frequent headaches, or difficulty seeing clearly at night, it’s time to schedule an eye exam. Astigmatism can worsen over time, and an updated prescription can significantly improve your vision and overall quality of life.
At Doctor My Eyes, we take the time to understand your unique visual needs and recommend the best solution for clear, comfortable eyesight. Whether you need glasses, contact lenses, or advanced vision correction options, we’re here to help you see your best.
Ready for Clearer Vision? If you think you might have astigmatism, don’t wait—book an appointment with Doctor My Eyes today to explore the best treatment options for you!
