Astigmatism
Astigmatism affects millions of people across North Dakota, causing blurred vision at all distances and often leading to eye strain, headaches, and difficulty with night driving. This common refractive error occurs when your cornea or lens has an irregular shape, preventing light from focusing correctly on your retina. Rather than being perfectly round like a basketball, an astigmatic eye is shaped more like a football, creating multiple focal points and the characteristic blurred or distorted vision.
At Vision Source Mandan, we understand how frustrating unclear vision can be in your daily life. Our experienced team of optometrists, led by Dr. Brittany Schauer, Dr. Wayne Aberle, and Dr. Danielle Dyke, has been helping Mandan and Bismarck residents achieve clear, comfortable vision for over 70 years. Through comprehensive eye exams and sophisticated diagnostic technology, we can accurately diagnose eye conditions like astigmatism and provide effective treatment options tailored to your lifestyle needs.
Understanding Astigmatism and Its Symptoms
Astigmatism is one of the most common vision problems, affecting people of all ages in Mandan and surrounding communities. According to research published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, astigmatism has an estimated prevalence of 40% in adults, making it the most common refractive error worldwide. Unlike nearsightedness or farsightedness, which cause vision problems at specific distances, astigmatism creates blurred or distorted vision at all distances. This occurs because the irregular curvature of your cornea or lens prevents light rays from converging at a single point on your retina.
Many people don’t realize they have astigmatism because the symptoms develop gradually. You may find yourself squinting frequently to see clearly, experiencing eye strain after reading or computer work, or having difficulty driving at night due to halos around lights. Headaches, particularly those that occur after visual tasks, are also common indicators of uncorrected astigmatism.
Types of Astigmatism
Regular astigmatism is the most common type, where the cornea curves more in one direction than another, creating two distinct focal points.
Irregular astigmatism, often caused by corneal scarring or conditions like keratoconus, creates multiple focal points and can be more challenging to correct with standard eyewear.
Comprehensive Astigmatism Diagnosis
At Vision Source Mandan, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to accurately measure and map your corneal curvature. During your comprehensive eye exam, we’ll perform several tests to gauge the presence and severity of astigmatism.
Our keratometer measures the curvature of your cornea’s front surface, while corneal topography creates a detailed map of your entire corneal surface.
The autorefractor provides an objective measurement of your refractive error, including astigmatism, which our doctors then refine through subjective testing. This thorough approach ensures we capture the full picture of your vision needs, allowing us to recommend the most effective treatment options.
Our practice utilizes advanced diagnostic technology that enables us to detect even the subtlest amounts of astigmatism. This precision ensures you get the most accurate prescription possible, whether you need glasses, contact lenses, or are considering surgical options.
Treatment Options for Astigmatism
Correcting astigmatism has never been easier thanks to advances in optical technology. Most people with astigmatism achieve excellent vision with properly prescribed eyeglasses or contact lenses. Glasses with toric lenses compensate for the irregular curvature of your eye, providing clear vision at all distances.
For those who want contact lenses, toric contact lenses are specifically crafted to correct astigmatism. These lenses have varying powers in different meridians and are weighted to maintain proper orientation on your eye. Our contact lens specialists can help you find the perfect fit and type for your lifestyle needs through our comprehensive contact lens services.
For patients considering surgical options, we provide thorough evaluations and referrals to trusted surgeons. While we don’t perform surgery at our practice, we work closely with experienced refractive surgeons to ensure you receive comprehensive care throughout your vision correction journey.
Living with Astigmatism in North Dakota
North Dakota’s wide open spaces and changing light conditions can make uncorrected astigmatism particularly challenging. Whether you’re driving across the prairie during sunrise, working on detailed indoor tasks, or engaging in outdoor activities, clear vision is essential for both safety and enjoyment.
Many of our patients are shocked at how much clearer and more comfortable their vision becomes after proper correction. Colors appear more vibrant, night driving becomes easier, and eye strain virtually disappears. Our patients frequently tell us about improvements they experience in various aspects of daily life:
- Reading becomes more comfortable and enjoyable without squinting or eye strain
- Computer work and detailed tasks no longer cause headaches or fatigue
- Night driving feels safer with reduced halos and glare around lights
- Outdoor activities become more enjoyable with crisp, clear distance vision
- Overall quality of life improves with reduced eye strain and visual discomfort
Regular follow-up appointments help ensure your correction remains consistent as your eyes change over time. Our team provides ongoing guidance and adjustments to keep your vision sharp and comfortable year after year.
Vision Source Mandan: Your Trusted Partner for Clear Vision
With decades of dedicated service to the Mandan and Bismarck communities, Vision Source Mandan combines time-tested care with cutting-edge technology. Our doctors stay current with the latest advances in astigmatism correction and refractive technology, ensuring you receive the most effective treatments available. As part of the respected Vision Source network, we have access to advanced instruments and continuing education that keep us at the forefront of eye care innovation.
Don’t let astigmatism continue to impact your daily life and visual comfort. Our comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment, combined with our commitment to personalized care, makes achieving clear, comfortable vision both accessible and affordable. We accept most insurance plans and work with you to find treatment options that fit your budget and lifestyle. Call us today at 701-663-0313 or contact us to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and take the first step toward clearer vision.
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Ready for Crystal-Clear Vision with Contact Lenses?
Don’t compromise on your vision or comfort. The eye care team at Vision Source Mandan is ready to help you find the perfect contact lens solution for your unique needs.