Why Does Increasing Astigmatism Prescription Cause Distorted Vision? - Ophthalmology

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Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens in the eye, leading to distorted or blurred vision. When you increase your astigmatism prescription, such as moving from 200 degrees to 225 degrees, it can indeed cause changes in how you perceive light and images, potentially resulting in distorted vision.

The phenomenon you are experiencing, where lights appear to have streaks or halos around them when wearing the new prescription, can be attributed to several factors:
1. Optical Distortion: When the prescription for astigmatism is increased, the optical characteristics of the lenses change. If the new lenses are not perfectly aligned with your visual axis or if they are not manufactured correctly, they can introduce optical distortions. This is particularly true if the lenses are thicker or have a different curvature than your previous pair.

2. Adaptation Period: It is common for individuals to experience some visual disturbances when switching to a new prescription, especially if there is a significant change in the degree of astigmatism. Your eyes may need time to adapt to the new lenses. This adaptation period can vary from person to person, but it typically lasts from a few days to a couple of weeks. During this time, you may notice distortions or a feeling of discomfort, which should gradually diminish as your visual system adjusts.

3. Lens Quality and Design: The type of lenses you are using can also affect your vision. High-quality lenses that are designed specifically for astigmatism can minimize distortions. If your new lenses are of lower quality or not specifically designed for your needs, this could contribute to the visual disturbances you are experiencing.

4. Visual Habits and Eye Health: Your overall eye health and visual habits can also play a role. If you have underlying conditions such as dry eyes or if you are straining your eyes due to prolonged screen time, this can exacerbate the perception of distortion. Ensuring that your eyes are healthy and well-rested can help improve your visual experience.

Given your situation, it is advisable to follow these steps:
- Give It Time: If you have just received the new prescription, give yourself a few days to see if the distortion improves as your eyes adjust.

- Consult Your Optometrist: If the distortion persists beyond a reasonable adaptation period (usually a week or two), or if it worsens, you should return to the optometrist or the place where you purchased the glasses. They can check the lenses for accuracy and ensure that they are made to the correct specifications.

- Consider Your Comfort: If you find that the 200-degree lenses provide clearer and more comfortable vision, it may be worth discussing with your eye care provider whether it is appropriate to continue using them until you can adjust to the new prescription or if further adjustments are needed.

In conclusion, while an increase in astigmatism prescription can lead to distorted vision, it is often a temporary issue related to adaptation. However, if the problem persists, it is essential to consult with your eye care professional to ensure that your lenses are correct and suitable for your visual needs.