Does Inadequate Astigmatism Correction Worsen Your Vision? - Ophthalmology

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Inadequate astigmatism correction can indeed worsen your vision. Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens, leading to blurred or distorted vision. When astigmatism is not properly corrected with glasses or contact lenses, the visual symptoms can become more pronounced, leading to discomfort, eye strain, and even headaches.
When you wear glasses that do not adequately correct your astigmatism, your eyes may have to work harder to focus, which can lead to fatigue and further deterioration of visual acuity. Over time, this can exacerbate the symptoms of astigmatism, making it feel as though your vision is worsening. However, it is important to note that the underlying astigmatism itself does not necessarily worsen due to inadequate correction; rather, the symptoms may become more noticeable.

Regarding your second question about whether acquired astigmatism can be corrected with glasses, the answer is yes, to a certain extent. Glasses can effectively correct astigmatism by compensating for the irregular shape of the cornea or lens. If you have a cylindrical prescription for astigmatism, wearing the appropriate lenses can help you achieve clearer vision.
However, it is essential to understand that while glasses can correct the refractive error, they do not change the shape of the cornea or lens itself. Therefore, if your astigmatism is due to an underlying condition or structural change in the eye, simply wearing glasses will not reverse that condition.
In some cases, especially if the astigmatism is stable and not progressing, wearing corrective lenses can help improve visual acuity over time. For example, if you have a cylindrical correction of -1.50 (150 degrees) and you wear glasses consistently, you may notice an improvement in your vision. However, the extent of this improvement can vary from person to person, and it may take time to achieve optimal results.

If you are experiencing significant changes in your vision or discomfort, it is crucial to consult with an eye care professional. They can perform a comprehensive eye examination, including refraction tests, to determine the appropriate prescription for your glasses. Additionally, they can assess whether any underlying conditions may be contributing to your visual symptoms.

In summary, inadequate astigmatism correction can worsen your visual symptoms, and while glasses can help correct acquired astigmatism, they do not change the underlying structural issues of the eye. Regular eye exams and proper correction are essential for maintaining good vision and eye health. If you have concerns about your vision or the effectiveness of your current prescription, do not hesitate to seek professional advice.