Astigmatism Treatment in Fort Collins
Astigmatism: An Eye Condition Causing Blurred Vision
Expert Astigmatism Care in Fort Collins at Poudre Valley Eyecare
Astigmatism affects the curvature of the cornea or lens, leading to blurred or distorted vision. At Poudre Valley Eyecare, our team of experienced eye care professionals in Fort Collins provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for astigmatism. If you suspect you have astigmatism, our experts are here to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision.
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing light to focus improperly on the retina. This can result in blurry vision at any distance.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision, affecting both near and distance sight, is a primary symptom of astigmatism.
Eye Strain
Eye strain, especially when focusing on objects for extended periods, can indicate astigmatism.
Headaches
Frequent headaches or eye pain can result from the eyes working harder to compensate for astigmatism.
Difficulty Seeing at Night
Astigmatism may cause difficulty seeing clearly at night or in low-light conditions.
Frequent Squinting
Squinting helps temporarily improve vision by changing the eye’s shape, a common behavior in those with astigmatism.
Comprehensive Eye Exams in Fort Collins
At Poudre Valley Eyecare, diagnosing astigmatism involves a series of comprehensive tests to ensure accurate results. Understanding the process can help you know what to expect during your visit.
Comprehensive Eye Exam
A thorough eye exam is essential to diagnose astigmatism. During your visit, our eye care professionals will conduct several tests to evaluate your vision and the shape of your cornea and lens.
Refraction Test
The refraction test determines the correct prescription for your glasses or contact lenses. Using a phoropter or an autorefractor, your eye doctor will assess how light rays bend as they pass through your eye. You will be asked to look through a series of lenses to find the combination that gives you the clearest vision.
Keratometry
Keratometry measures the curvature of your cornea. This test involves focusing a circle of light on your cornea and measuring its reflection. It helps determine the extent and orientation of the astigmatism.
Corneal Topography
Corneal topography provides a detailed map of the surface curvature of your cornea. This test is especially useful for identifying irregularities in the cornea that contribute to astigmatism. It is a painless procedure that involves looking at a target while a series of light patterns are projected onto the cornea.
Visual Acuity Test
The visual acuity test measures how well you can see at various distances. You’ll read letters on a chart positioned at the other end of the room. This test helps determine the sharpness of your vision and is a standard part of every eye exam.
Astigmatic Dial Test
The astigmatic dial test involves looking at a chart with a series of lines radiating from a central point, similar to a clock face. You will indicate which lines appear clearer or darker. This test helps pinpoint the orientation and degree of astigmatism.
Autorefractors and Aberrometers
Autorefractors and aberrometers are automated devices that provide precise measurements of your eye’s refractive error. They can quickly measure how light changes as it enters your eye, offering valuable information for diagnosing astigmatism.
Retinoscopy
Retinoscopy is a technique used to determine the refractive error of your eyes. Your eye doctor will shine a light into your eyes and observe the reflection off your retina. This test is especially useful for diagnosing astigmatism in children and those who have difficulty with standard refraction tests.
Slit-Lamp Examination
A slit-lamp examination allows your eye doctor to examine the structures at the front of your eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens, under high magnification. This detailed view helps detect any abnormalities that could indicate astigmatism.
Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining eye health and detecting astigmatism early. Even if you don’t notice symptoms, routine check-ups can ensure any changes in your vision are promptly addressed.
Why Choose Poudre Valley Eyecare for Astigmatism Diagnosis?
At Poudre Valley Eyecare, we use advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to accurately diagnose astigmatism. Our experienced eye care professionals provide personalized care tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the best possible treatment for clear, comfortable vision.
Astigmatism Treatment Options
Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
We offer a variety of contact lenses to suit your lifestyle and vision needs:
- Daily Disposable Lenses: Convenient and hygienic, replaced daily.
- Monthly Replacement Lenses: Cost-effective with longer wear time.
- Toric Lenses: Specifically designed to correct astigmatism.
- Transition Lenses: Adjust to changing light conditions.
- Multifocal Lenses: Correct both astigmatism and presbyopia.
- Gas Permeable Lenses: Provide crisp, clear vision with effective astigmatism correction.
- Hybrid Lenses: Combine a rigid center with a soft skirt for comfort and clarity.
- Soft Lenses: Suitable for mild astigmatism.
Prescription Glasses for Astigmatism
We provide personalized solutions with a wide range of frames and lenses:
- Frame Shape and Size: Tailored to enhance lens effectiveness.
- Lens Material: Options include plastic or polycarbonate for clarity and durability.
- Specialized Coatings: Anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, and UV-blocking coatings.
- Computer Glasses: Reduce eye strain from digital device use.
- Anti-glare Glasses: Improve visual clarity in various lighting conditions.
- Blue Light Glasses: Filter harmful blue light from screens.
Eye Exercises for Astigmatism
While eye exercises cannot cure astigmatism, they may help improve visual function and reduce eye strain. Consult with our eye doctors before starting any exercise regimen.
Paper Exercises
- Strengthen peripheral vision by observing objects placed to the side.
- Repeat until your eyes become tired.
Head Exercise
- Tilt your head in the opposite direction of your usual tilt.
- Hold for a few seconds, then return to neutral.
- Repeat several times.
Changing Focus Exercise
- Look at a close object without corrective lenses, then switch focus to a distant object.
- Alternate between near and far objects.
Why Choose Poudre Valley Eyecare for Astigmatism Care in Fort Collins?
At Poudre Valley Eyecare, we are committed to providing the highest quality eye care for our patients in Fort Collins. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to ensure you receive the best care possible.
Schedule an appointment with us today to start your journey toward better vision.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit our website at Poudre Valley Eyecare.
Convenient Location
Located in the heart of Fort Collins, Poudre Valley Eyecare is located on South College Ave, just north of The Human Bean, and a 4 minute walk from Colorado State University.
What is Digital Eye Strain? Can I have it with contacts?
In short, your eyes have to work pretty hard when you’re using a screen. Brightness levels, differences in color contrast and focus/resolutions, and constantly looking at the same distance all make working on a screen difficult for your eyes.
Yes, you can have digital eye strain with contacts. That said, you might consider having your prescription checked. A small change can make a big difference–especially if you work on a computer all day.
There’s no need to make your eyes work harder than they have to! We can work together to improve your vision and your comfort.
Astigmatism FAQs
Why Choose Us?
Our advanced technology and individualized care deliver results for patients of all ages. Our routine exams allow us to spot changes in your vision and allow us to treat those changes early. We have a comprehensive understanding of eye care, which means we can treat a wide range of conditions and chronic diseases. Our in-depth routine exams and customized treatment plans set us apart from other Fort Collins optometrists.
