Astigmatism Diagnosis & Treatment in Chicago, IL
Astigmatism is one of the most common refractive errors — and one of the most frequently misunderstood. At Ideal Family Eye Care, our experienced optometrists diagnose and treat astigmatism in patients of all ages, providing accurate prescriptions and a range of effective correction options so you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision at every distance.
request an appointmentWhat Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape — rather than being perfectly round like a basketball, it is curved more like the surface of a football. This irregular curvature causes light rays entering the eye to split and focus at multiple points instead of a single precise point on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Astigmatism is often present alongside myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness).
Astigmatism is extremely common — most people have at least a mild degree of it. It is usually present from birth and is believed to be largely genetic in origin, though it can also develop or worsen following eye injury, disease, or surgery. In some cases, significant astigmatism can be a sign of keratoconus — a progressive corneal condition that requires close monitoring and specialized treatment.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
Common symptoms of astigmatism include blurry or distorted vision at any distance, eyestrain and eye fatigue, squinting to try to see more clearly, headaches (often frontal), difficulty seeing clearly at night, and more frequent blinking as the eyes try to compensate for blurred focus. With mild astigmatism, the only symptom may be slightly more frequent blinking or mild eye fatigue. A comprehensive eye exam at Ideal Family Eye Care — including a refraction test and corneal topography — provides the most accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Astigmatism at Ideal Family Eye Care
Astigmatism is highly treatable and most patients achieve excellent vision correction with the right approach. Treatment options at Ideal Family Eye Care include:
- Prescription eyeglasses: Specially designed cylindrical lenses that compensate for the uneven corneal curvature. Our extensive collection of glasses includes the latest digital lens technology for the sharpest possible correction.
- Toric contact lenses: Specially designed soft contact lenses for astigmatism that maintain proper orientation on the eye for consistent, clear vision.
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Custom overnight rigid lenses that temporarily reshape the cornea for clear daytime vision without glasses or contacts — also effective for myopia control in children with concurrent nearsightedness.
- Refractive surgery referral: For eligible patients seeking a permanent solution, we provide LASIK consultations and co-manage all pre- and post-operative care.
Call Ideal Family Eye Care at (773) 774-2200 to schedule your astigmatism evaluation in Chicago, IL today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Astigmatism
What is astigmatism and is it serious?
Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens that prevents light from focusing properly on the retina. For most patients it is a manageable condition easily corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery. In some cases, significant astigmatism may be associated with keratoconus and requires more specialized monitoring and treatment.
Can astigmatism get worse over time?
Astigmatism can change gradually over time, particularly during childhood development and adolescence. Regular eye exams at Ideal Family Eye Care are the best way to monitor any changes and ensure your prescription stays up to date. Significant or rapidly worsening astigmatism should be evaluated promptly to rule out keratoconus.
Can I wear contact lenses if I have astigmatism?
Yes. Toric contact lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism and are available in both soft and rigid varieties. Ortho-K lenses are also an excellent option for patients with astigmatism who want glasses-free daytime vision. Our providers at Ideal Family Eye Care will determine the best lens type for your prescription and lifestyle.
Is astigmatism hereditary?
Yes. Astigmatism is largely believed to be genetic and is often present from birth. If you or your partner have astigmatism, your children are at higher risk of developing it. This makes regular pediatric eye exams especially important for children in affected families.
Can LASIK correct astigmatism?
Yes. LASIK surgery can effectively correct many forms of astigmatism by precisely reshaping the cornea to eliminate the irregular curvature. At Ideal Family Eye Care, we provide comprehensive LASIK consultations to determine whether you are a good candidate and co-manage all pre- and post-operative care.
What is the difference between astigmatism and keratoconus?
Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by mild irregular corneal curvature that is stable in most patients. Keratoconus is a progressive disease where the cornea continues to thin and distort over time in an irregular pattern. Keratoconus-related astigmatism is irregular, worsening, and often cannot be corrected with standard glasses. Corneal topography at Ideal Family Eye Care can differentiate between the two.
How do I schedule an astigmatism evaluation at Ideal Family Eye Care?
Call Ideal Family Eye Care at (773) 774-2200 or use our online booking tool to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Our providers will accurately assess your astigmatism and recommend the best correction option for your vision needs and lifestyle.