Understanding the differences between myopia and astigmatism is especially helpful for anyone who has been diagnosed with either condition.
Both conditions cause blurry vision, but they do so in distinct ways. Myopia causes distant objects to appear blurry, while astigmatism distorts vision at all distances. These differences result from how each condition affects the shape of your eyes.
Understanding Myopia
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, makes distant objects appear blurry while close-up items remain clear.
This condition occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is curved too steeply, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Myopia can develop early in childhood, and it often progresses as a child grows. Factors like genetics and environmental influences—such as spending too much time focusing on screens or reading—can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Regular eye exams aren’t just important—they’re essential for identifying and managing myopia. Left untreated, myopia can lead to eye strain, headaches, and difficulties in activities like driving or playing sports. However, regular check-ups can identify potential complications early.
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism, on the other hand, causes blurry or distorted vision at all distances.
This condition results from an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, which prevents light from focusing evenly on the retina. The result is blurriness at all distances. Astigmatism can also co-occur with refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia (farsightedness).
Without correction, astigmatism can make daily activities like reading, using a computer, or driving uncomfortable. Though it might seem complicated, astigmatism is incredibly common, and effective treatments are readily available, so you’re not alone in your journey.
The Key Differences Between Myopia & Astigmatism
While both myopia and astigmatism affect the way your eyes focus light, they differ in how they impact your vision.
- Cause: Myopia occurs due to an elongated eyeball or steep cornea, while astigmatism results from an irregularly shaped cornea or lens.
- Impact on Vision: Myopia affects distant vision, but close-up vision stays sharp. Astigmatism causes blurriness or distortion at all distances.
- Occurrence: Myopia often develops in childhood, while astigmatism can develop at any age and may appear alongside myopia or hyperopia.
Treating Myopia
Managing myopia ensures clearer vision and helps prevent the condition from worsening. Depending on the condition’s severity and your own individual needs, your optometrist may recommend a range of corrective options:
- Eyeglasses: Eyeglasses are a popular and straightforward solution to correct nearsightedness. They offer clear vision for everyday tasks and are often the first line of defence for children with developing myopia.
- Multifocal Lenses: These specialty lenses feature different prescriptions in various zones, correcting nearsightedness while minimizing eye strain. Book a contact lens exam to explore if this solution is right for your child.
- Myopia-Slowing Eyeglasses: Certain eyeglasses are designed to slow myopia progression in children. These lenses offer an easy, non-invasive way to manage the condition.
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-k lenses reshape the cornea overnight, allowing for clear vision during the day without eyeglasses or contact lenses. This is an excellent option for children and teens who play sports or prefer not to wear glasses.
- Atropine Therapy: Atropine drops, used in low doses, have shown promising results in slowing myopia progression. Though they don’t eliminate the need for corrective eyewear, they can significantly reduce the rate at which myopia worsens.
- Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams are essential to monitor myopia progression. Regular check-ups allow us to adjust prescriptions and implement new strategies if necessary, ensuring optimal vision and eye health.
Treating Astigmatism
Astigmatism can also be corrected through several effective methods, depending on the severity and individual needs:
- Eyeglasses: Lenses designed to correct uneven curvature of the cornea and provide clear vision.
- Toric Contact Lenses: Specially designed contacts that align with the irregular shape of the eye in order to provide sharper vision.
- Refractive Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea, offering long-term vision correction.
- Hybrid Contact Lenses: A combination of rigid and soft lenses that provide clear vision and comfort for more severe cases.
Find Vision Support with Queensway Optometric Centre
Whether you’re managing myopia, astigmatism, or both, we’re here to help you achieve clear and comfortable vision. Our knowledgeable and caring team at Queensway Optometric Centre is ready to guide you toward the best eye treatment. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier vision for you or your family.
Let us support your journey to better sight—because life looks better with clearer vision!
