High Astigmatism: My Eye Care Journey and Concerns

My high astigmatism?

Hello, doctor: I got my current pair of glasses at the end of last year.
At that time, the equipment measured my astigmatism to be over 700 degrees, and the optometrist suggested that I see an ophthalmologist for a check-up before getting glasses.
When I visited the ophthalmologist, the measurements for my astigmatism were similar, around 700 degrees, but my myopia was low.
The doctor mentioned that this was due to my eyelashes being inwardly turned, and he helped me remove some eyelashes.
A week later, I went back to the optical store for another eye exam, but my prescription did not improve, so I proceeded with the same prescription for my glasses.

Recently, I noticed the appearance of floaters in my left eye, so I returned to the ophthalmology clinic for an examination.
I expressed my concerns to the doctor, as some of my classmates have astigmatism of 3.4 diopters and said that without their glasses, their vision becomes very unclear.
However, I feel that when I take off my glasses, I can see quite clearly, and the difference in clarity between wearing and not wearing glasses is not significant.
Although my vision seems better with glasses, wearing them makes my eyes more prone to fatigue.
The doctor rechecked my vision and found that my astigmatism was still over 700 degrees, but my vision with glasses was 0.5 and 0.8, while my uncorrected vision was 0.8 and 1.0.
The doctor was unsure why this was happening and mentioned that the clinic's equipment might not be sufficient, advising me to go to a larger hospital for further examination.
I would like to ask why this might be the case?

Fengzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/07

Dr. Liu Jingxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello Feng-Zai,
Your question is actually not straightforward and may require the use of some instruments to obtain a result.
Based on your description, there is insufficient information to provide a conclusion.
I also recommend visiting a larger hospital and consulting with a cornea specialist, as they should be able to provide you with answers.

All the best,
Ching-Chih

Reply Date: 2005/04/07

More Info

Hello! Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding your eye care journey, particularly with high astigmatism and the recent developments you've experienced. It’s understandable to feel anxious about your vision, especially when you notice changes like the appearance of floaters or differences in clarity with and without your glasses. Let’s break down your situation and address your questions.

Firstly, high astigmatism, which you mentioned is around 700 degrees, can significantly affect your vision. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the front surface of the eye) is irregularly shaped, causing blurred or distorted vision. This condition can lead to visual discomfort, especially during prolonged tasks like reading or using screens. The fact that you have a high degree of astigmatism means that your eyes may require more precise correction to achieve clear vision.

Regarding your experience of seeing clearly without glasses, this can sometimes happen due to the way your eyes compensate for the astigmatism. Some individuals may have a degree of visual acuity that allows them to see reasonably well without corrective lenses, especially if their eyes are not overly fatigued. However, wearing glasses can help reduce eye strain and improve overall visual clarity, especially during tasks that require focus, such as reading or working on a computer.

The appearance of floaters in your left eye is another concern. Floaters are often harmless and are caused by changes in the vitreous gel inside the eye. However, if you notice a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention, as these could be signs of a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment.

Your experience of increased eye fatigue when wearing glasses could be attributed to several factors. It’s possible that the prescription may not be perfectly suited to your needs, or that the glasses themselves are not providing the optimal comfort. Additionally, if your eyes are straining to adjust to the correction, this can lead to fatigue. It’s crucial to have a thorough eye examination, preferably at a specialized facility, to ensure that your prescription is accurate and that there are no underlying issues contributing to your discomfort.

Regarding the recommendation to visit a larger hospital for further examination, this is a prudent step. Larger facilities often have more advanced diagnostic equipment that can provide a more comprehensive assessment of your eye health. They can evaluate not only your refractive error but also the overall health of your eyes, including the retina and other structures.

In summary, while your current situation may feel concerning, there are many avenues for improvement. Regular check-ups with an eye care professional are essential, especially given your high astigmatism and the recent changes in your vision. It’s also important to communicate openly with your eye care provider about your symptoms and any discomfort you experience with your glasses. They can help tailor your treatment plan to better suit your needs, whether that involves adjusting your prescription, exploring different types of lenses, or addressing any underlying eye health concerns.

Remember, maintaining good eye health is a journey, and it’s great that you are proactive in seeking the care you need. Don’t hesitate to reach out for further evaluations and to discuss your concerns with your eye care team. They are there to help you navigate through this and ensure your vision remains as clear and comfortable as possible.

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