Skip to main content

Astigmatism & Myopia

Wayne H. Martin, MD -  - Ophthalmology

Wayne H. Martin, MD

Ophthalmology located in Diamond Bar, CA & Chino, CA

Refractive errors, such as astigmatism and myopia, are the most common types of vision problems. They result in symptoms, such as blurry or distorted vision. The team of expert ophthalmologists at the practice of Dr. Wayne H. Martin, MD in Diamond Bar, California, diagnose refractive errors and treat them using glasses, contact lenses, and LASIK surgery. To get your vision checked, book an appointment online or over the phone today.

Astigmatism & Myopia Q & A

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a refractive error that causes blurry vision. When you have astigmatism, your eyes have an irregular shape, which bends light unevenly, causing blurry, wavy, or distorted vision.

In addition to blurry vision, you may get headaches, find yourself squinting often, or have trouble driving at night.

Astigmatism runs in families, and those who suffer from astigmatism are often born with it. Children with astigmatism are usually only diagnosed with it after people around them notice they have difficulty reading or concentrating. Astigmatism can also develop later in life, and it can affect some people who sustain eye injuries or have eye surgery.

What is myopia?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, means that you can see objects that are close up clearly, but objects that are far away appear blurry. If you have untreated myopia, you may be able to read a book or use a computer easily but have trouble watching a movie in a theater or reading a whiteboard.

When you have difficulty seeing clearly at a distance, you may also experience headaches and eye strain. Most people develop myopia in childhood, and it worsens in their teen or young adult years. Myopia often stabilizes in adulthood, but it can worsen again beginning in middle age.

How are astigmatism and myopia diagnosed and treated?

Astigmatism and myopia are diagnosed during comprehensive eye exams. One of the main tests your doctor will perform will be a refraction test. A refraction test will show your doctor how your eyes bend light. Your doctor can then determine if you have astigmatism or myopia and decide on the corrective lenses that could help you.

Treatments for astigmatism and myopia include:

  • Eyeglasses, which bend light rays so they reach your retina evenly, producing a clear image

  • Contact lenses, which can correct nearly all of the same refractive errors as eyeglasses
  • LASIK, an in-office laser surgery procedure that reshapes your corneas

To schedule a comprehensive eye exam and find out if you have astigmatism or myopia, use the online tool to book an appointment or call the office of Dr. Wayne H. Martin, MD today.