The Astigmatism Test

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Astigmatism is a condition in which the cornea, which is the front part of the eye, is not fully circular (like a tennis ball). It is more like an American football or like an egg. Significant astigmatism can cause eye strain because the eye tries to focus twice as much. Astigmatism can be caused by many factors, but it is mostly hereditary. Symptoms include blurry vision and distorted vision where objects may appear stretched.

 

Here is a simple test that you could try at home to see if you may have astigmatism: Cover one eye and look at this picture with the other eye. If some of the areas of the image appear lighter or blurrier and the circles are not concentric, but distorted, then you may have astigmatism. Do this also with the other eye. Astigmatism can be treated with glasses and contact lenses. Also Lasik eye surgery has been proven to be an effective alternative. Of course, the results of this test may vary individually.