Treatment for Astigmatism
Astigmatism can be effectively corrected, allowing clear and comfortable vision. The treatment for astigmatism chosen depends on the severity, type, lifestyle needs, and whether it coexists with other vision problems.
1. Eyeglasses
- The most common and simplest correction
- Cylindrical lenses are used to compensate for uneven curvature
- Often combined with lenses for myopia or hyperopia
- Suitable for children and adults of all ages
2. Contact Lenses
- Provide a wider field of vision than glasses
- Types:
- Toric soft lenses – specially shaped for astigmatism
- Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses – used for moderate to severe or irregular astigmatism
- Hybrid lenses – rigid centre with soft edges for comfort and precision
3. Refractive Surgery
- Permanent vision correction for eligible adults
- Types include:
- LASIK – reshapes the cornea using a laser
- PRK – similar to LASIK but removes the corneal surface first
- SMILE – a less invasive laser option for mild to moderate astigmatism
- Not all patients qualify — screening includes corneal thickness and general eye health
4. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
- Special rigid contact lenses worn overnight
- Temporarily reshape the cornea for daytime clarity without lenses
- Common in mild to moderate regular astigmatism
In South Africa, most optical practices offer toric lenses, refractive surgery consultations, and affordable glasses. Public clinics may offer basic correction, but surgery and contact lenses are usually private.
👉 [Next: Complications of Untreated Astigmatism]
