Can Astigmatism Go Away?

Astigmatism is a refractive error that distorts or blurs vision. It’s very common and is usually caused by an abnormally shaped cornea. The condition is treated in several ways, including eyeglasses, contact lenses, or laser vision correction. 

But, can astigmatism go away on its own? The general answer to this is no, it can’t. However, there is one circumstance where a certain type of astigmatism might improve over time. To understand what this is, it’s necessary to have a slightly deeper understanding of the condition.

Astigmatism 101

• What is astigmatism?
• Can astigmatism go away by itself?
• Treating astigmatism

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is caused by one of two reasons:

1. An abnormally shaped cornea (the most usual reason)
2. An abnormally shaped lens

These two structures work together to create clear vision. The cornea is the outer surface of the front of the eye and the lens is an internal structure that lies just behind it. In a normal eye, both are the same curved shape. Light flows through and hits the retina at the back of the eye. From here, the signals are transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve. These are then translated into the images we call eyesight.

When either the cornea or the lens has an abnormal shape, this interrupts the flow of light—which means the signals sent to the brain become muddled. Therefore, the images we see become blurred or out of focus.

Astigmatism can either be in the vertical plane (so the curve of either the lens or cornea is deformed from top to bottom) or the horizontal (left to right).

Can astigmatism go away by itself?

A person can either be born with astigmatism or it might develop over time. The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that,

“Over time a small amount of vertical astigmatism, probably because of the constant pressure of the lids, may diminish and even disappear but horizontal astigmatism will slowly increase over time due to the same factor. Larger amounts are generally stable and will not disappear spontaneously.”

In the vast majority of cases, astigmatism doesn’t go away by itself and will require a form of treatment to achieve true clarity.

Treating astigmatism

Thankfully, astigmatism is very easily treated. Your eye doctor has several options, the best of which will depend on your lifestyle and requirements.

• Eyeglasses: One of the simplest, least expensive, and common choices. The lens prescription (astigmatism can be in one or both eyes) is tailored to counteract the visual impairment caused by the eye abnormality.
• Contact lenses: Again, the prescription corrects the astigmatism.
• Laser vision correction: The most advanced version of this is LASIK. The procedure permanently alters the shape of the cornea, leading to a life without eyeglasses or contacts. While LASIK is suitable for most people, there are some contraindications. However, alternative laser vision options are available that can also treat the issue.
• Intraocular lens implant: An intraocular lens (IOL) is what’s implanted into the eye during a cataract operation. There are now advanced lenses that can correct astigmatism as well as treat cataracts.

Can Your Astigmatism Go Away Naturally? Get Assessed at the WBEC

While it’s rare that astigmatism will improve on its own, the only way to get a definitive answer is to consult an eye doctor. At the West Boca Eye Center, we see and treat multiple cases of astigmatism. 

We can treat it in so many ways. From the simplicity of eyeglasses to contact lenses, laser vision correction, or even through implanting an advanced intraocular lens during cataract surgery, there are countless high-tech options.

Correcting astigmatism begins with that all-important eye exam. Discover more at https://www.westbocaeyecenter.com/ and call today to book an appointment.

Astigmatism is a refractive error that distorts or blurs vision. It’s very common and is usually caused by an abnormally shaped cornea. The condition is treated in several ways, including eyeglasses, contact lenses, or laser vision correction.