Astigmatism is a common refractive error that causes blurred or distorted vision. It happens when the eye’s cornea or lens isn’t perfectly curved, leading to light rays focusing unevenly on the retina. This condition affects both near and distant vision, making it hard to see clearly without correction.
Most people have some degree of astigmatism. In fact, it’s quite normal for the cornea to be slightly irregular. However, when the curvature is too uneven, vision problems can become noticeable.
Types and Causes of Astigmatism
There are two main types of astigmatism:
- Corneal Astigmatism: The cornea has an irregular shape.
- Lenticular Astigmatism: The lens inside the eye has an uneven surface.
Common Causes:
- Genetics: Astigmatism can be inherited.
- Eye injury or surgery.
- Keratoconus, a condition that causes thinning of the cornea.
- Prolonged screen time and poor visual habits (though not proven, may aggravate symptoms).
Symptoms to Watch For
Astigmatism symptoms vary depending on its severity. Common signs include:
- Blurry or distorted vision at all distances
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Headaches
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Squinting to see clearly
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a visit to an eye care professional is essential.
Astigmatism in the Philippines: How Common Is It?
Astigmatism is highly prevalent among Filipinos. A local study conducted in Marikina City revealed that over 70% of senior high school students had astigmatism in one or both eyes. Another study published in the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology showed that 71.70% of patients examined at a single center had astigmatism. Women were slightly more affected than men.
These numbers are significantly higher than global averages, where the prevalence ranges from 30% to 60% in most age groups. This makes astigmatism a top eye health concern in the country, especially in children and working-age adults.
Clear Vision Starts with Awareness
Astigmatism is one of the most common and treatable vision problems in the Philippines. With early diagnosis and access to effective treatments, Filipinos can live without the limitations of blurred vision.
If you or a loved one experiences symptoms, don’t wait. Consult a trusted eye care provider and explore your options.
At Shinagawa Lasik & Aesthetics, our eye specialists are committed to delivering world-class vision correction solutions tailored for the Filipino community. Whether it’s through LASIK surgery or regular eye exams, we help bring clarity to your everyday life.
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Citations and Resources
Shinagawa LASIK & Aesthetics strives to provide accurate and reliable information regarding LASIK procedures and eye health. We utilize primary sources to support our content, including peer-reviewed scientific studies, data from reputable medical organizations, and expert opinions. We also reference established publications and research where appropriate.
Our commitment to evidence-based information ensures that you receive trustworthy and up-to-date details to make informed decisions about your eye care.
Resources Used in This Article
- Research Gate – “Refractive errors in Filipino eyes in a single-center population. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267326365_Refractive_errors_in_Filipino_eyes_in_a_single-center_population“
- Herdin – “College of Optometry Prevalence of Refractive Error Among Senior High School Students in Sta. Elena High School, Marikina City. https://www.herdin.ph/index.php?view=research&cid=79574“