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Astigmatism means your eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football, so light is focused at more than 1 place in the eye.

The main symptoms of astigmatism are:

blurred vision
headaches
eye strain – you may notice this after concentrating for a long time, such as when using a computer

Astigmatism normally happens alongside short-sightedness or long-sightedness.

Astigmatism in 1 eye may cause lazy eye (where the vision does not develop properly). It's important this is spotted early so it can be treated.

Astigmatism may also affect your child's reading or concentration.

Non-urgent advice: Go to an opticians if:

Astigmatism can be linked to an eye condition called keratoconus. So it's important to get regular eye tests.

Astigmatism does not always need to be treated, but possible treatments can include glasses, contact lenses and laser surgery.

Pros and cons of different astigmatism treatments
Treatment	Pros	Cons
Treatment Glasses	Pros the cheapest option may be available free or discounted on the NHS	Cons could get lost or broken
Treatment Contact lenses	Pros choice of soft or hard lenses can be a good choice if you're active may be free or discounted on the NHS	Cons may not be suitable for everyone risk of eye infection through poor contact lens hygiene
Treatment Laser eye or lens surgery	Pros may be permanent may be better for people with more severe vision problems	Cons risk of complications during or after surgery not available on the NHS can be expensive possible side effects

Page last reviewed: 19 September 2024
Next review due: 19 September 2027