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Astigmatism is a type of refractive deformity of the eye and can cause blurred vision and are the most common reason why a person goes to see an ophthalmologist.

Astigmatism is seen in many people from short sighted to long sighted people. It is a very common eye condition however it is not understood by most people. Basically, it means that your eye has difficulty focusing on objects at certain angles. Many patients have issues with vertical lines or walls that appear to the patient as if they are leaning over or bent. This is caused by the shape of the inner eye a normal eye one with perfect vision is shaped like a golf ball, someone with astigmatism is shaped more like a football or egg.

Some typical symptoms often associated with astigmatism:

• Distorted vision
• Blurry vision
• Eye strain
• Squinting
• Headaches

Astigmatism is common in many people and most people have some mild form of astigmatism.  For those that it is noticeable it can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, a lens implant and many times laser corrective surgery.

Below is a video which explains Astigmatism

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Astigmatism is a common refractive error. People who have astigmatism experience blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Astigmatism occurs when light entering the eye comes into focus at multiple points, either in front of or behind the retina, instead of precisely on the retina. This can be caused by a cornea that is irregularly shaped, and differs from the rounded shape of a normal cornea. Sometimes it can be caused by an irregularly shaped lens inside the eye. People with mild astigmatism can experience slightly blurred or distorted vision at all distances, but people with severe astigmatism can have vision affected so much, that it prevents them from performing their daily activities.