Corinthian Colleges Inc. Do I see one or two? AstigmatismRozie Sydenstricker Pharmacy Tech. (Everest College) What is astigmatism? Astigmatism is a refractive error that can be entirely myopic (nearsighted), hyperopic (farsighted), or both mixed in the eye. Which can cause blurred vision, irregular curvature of the eyes. The front of your eye (cornea) is curved differently than in other directions. Other areas of the eye may be flatter or steeper. The 2 most common astigmatisms are 1) Corneal astigmatism: the cornea has an irregular shape 2) Lenticular astigmatism: the lens has an irregular shape. Corneal - it's like seeing two instead of one. (focuses on 2 in the retina rather than 1) a) Babies are at higher risk if one or both parents have it b) babies born prematurely, low birth weight c) Lenticular keratoconus - common in people with diabetes; High blood sugar causes the lenses to change shape. Studies have shown since 2013 that older people have a higher fall rate if their astigmatism is on an oblique axis of 180* or more. Extra precautions should therefore be taken when new glasses are given to these particular patients. The age of onset of astigmatism is usually present at birth and will be either nearsightedness, farsightedness, or a combination of both. At that time, it is not enough to be corrected. When the time comes, the treatment options are corrective lenses or surgery. Astigmatism can also develop suddenly after eye surgery or injury. Your environment can play a big role in how astigmatism can affect your daily life. #1 If you haven't yet been diagnosed, you might experience any of the following symptoms: 1) blurred/distorted vision 2 ) eye strain 3) headaches #2 As mentioned before, the ...... middle of paper ...... no cure for this astigmatism. Some Visuals of Astigmatisms What I found most interesting about astigmatism is that our eye is supposed to be round and when you have this disorder your eye is more oblong or shaped like a football. I also learned that dilating your eyes helps determine if you have this disorder. If your parents have it, the likelihood of you inheriting this disorder is high. You can even be born with astigmatism and it can even impact your academic and athletic performance if this problem is left untreated. Individuals, patients, caregivers, friends and family can access the following websites and search these links for assistance: http://www. experienceproject.com/groups/Have-Astigmatism/97075 https://www.facebook.com/pages/Astigmatism-support-group/117284234987851http://www.healthcentral.com/ency/408/001015trt.html