Causes and Types of Astigmatism
Astigmatism results from an irregularly shaped cornea or lens that affects how light is bent (refracted) when entering the eye. Learn more about the causes and types of astigmatism below.
Causes
- Genetics
- Most cases of astigmatism are inherited and present from birth.
- Most cases of astigmatism are inherited and present from birth.
- Eye Injuries or Surgery
- Damage to the cornea can affect its shape, leading to astigmatism.
- Damage to the cornea can affect its shape, leading to astigmatism.
- Keratoconus
- A rare degenerative condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, worsening astigmatism over time.
- A rare degenerative condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, worsening astigmatism over time.
- Eye Development
- Changes in the shape of the eye during growth can lead to astigmatism, especially in children.
- Changes in the shape of the eye during growth can lead to astigmatism, especially in children.
- Post-surgical or age-related changes
- Older adults may develop lens-related (lenticular) astigmatism due to cataracts or lens stiffening.
Types of Astigmatism
- Corneal Astigmatism
- Caused by an unevenly curved cornea
- Most common form
- Lenticular Astigmatism
- Caused by irregularities in the eye’s lens
- Caused by irregularities in the eye’s lens
- Regular Astigmatism
- The most common type
- Curvature is uneven but symmetrical
- Easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses
- Irregular Astigmatism
- The curvature is uneven and asymmetrical
- Often caused by trauma, keratoconus, or surgery
- May require rigid contact lenses or surgery
Understanding your type of astigmatism helps eye care professionals recommend the right treatment or correction method.
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Dr Lourens Coetzee – Cataract, Cornea & Refractive Surgeon
