How to Determine Whether You Have Astigmatism
Jun 29, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen You
Introduction
To determine whether you have astigmatism, start by evaluating your symptoms. If you experience blurred vision, double vision, improved clarity when squinting, visual fatigue, significantly worsened night vision, or decreased visual acuity, astigmatism is more likely. At this point, further diagnostic testing can confirm the diagnosis—such as visual acuity testing, astigmatism evaluation, refraction testing, and corneal curvature measurement.
Nowadays, people who use computers for extended periods frequently experience visual fatigue, which can lead to eye strain. One primary cause is poor eye hygiene and prolonged blinking suppression during screen use—this type of fatigue can often be alleviated with adequate rest. Another common cause is astigmatism, which requires timely correction to relieve symptoms of eye strain. So, how can you determine whether you have astigmatism?
How to Determine Whether You Have Astigmatism
To assess whether you have astigmatism, begin by evaluating your symptoms. If you experience blurred or double vision, squinting to see more clearly, visual fatigue, significantly worsened night vision, or declining visual acuity, astigmatism is a likely possibility. In such cases, further diagnostic testing—including visual acuity testing, astigmatism-specific evaluation, refraction testing, and corneal curvature measurement—can confirm the diagnosis.
In myopia (nearsightedness), distant objects appear blurry, but magnification improves clarity. In contrast, with astigmatism, objects at any distance—near or far—appear consistently blurred or distorted, often with a double or shadowy image. Regardless of viewing distance, individuals with astigmatism struggle to achieve clear vision. However, partially closing the eyes (squinting) may temporarily improve clarity. In contrast, individuals with myopia typically cannot improve distant vision by squinting; instead, their vision remains persistently blurry, leading over time to chronic eye fatigue.
If you suspect astigmatism, we recommend consulting an eye care professional for evaluation. Corneal topography or keratometry can provide an accurate, objective assessment—and may serve as a useful initial screening tool. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
