Can astigmatism combined with myopia be corrected?
Mar 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
Astigmatism combined with myopia can be corrected. Generally, during adolescence, a suitable pair of eyeglasses can be prescribed, or orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses may be worn for correction. In adulthood, if surgical eligibility criteria are met, refractive surgery can be performed for correction.
Compared with myopia, astigmatism is often a more frustrating visual problem—because it impairs clarity both at distance and near. Consequently, many individuals with myopia wonder whether concurrent astigmatism and myopia can be corrected. Below, we address this question.
Can astigmatism combined with myopia be corrected?
Yes, astigmatism coexisting with myopia can be effectively corrected. During adolescence, appropriate prescription eyeglasses or orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses are commonly recommended for correction. In adulthood, if surgical eligibility criteria are met, refractive surgery may be performed to correct both conditions.
Therefore, if you have both astigmatism and myopia, it is advisable to seek prompt ophthalmologic evaluation. A comprehensive eye examination will assess the degree of astigmatism and myopia, determine the astigmatic axis, and typically include corneal topography and keratometry to rule out keratoconus.
With the widespread use of electronic devices, the prevalence of both astigmatism and myopia has been gradually increasing—particularly that of astigmatism. This is because astigmatism frequently coexists, to some degree, with either myopia or hyperopia. However, low-degree astigmatism (≤50 diopters) generally does not require correction. Higher degrees of astigmatism, on the other hand, necessitate appropriate optical or surgical correction.
The above outlines whether astigmatism combined with myopia can be corrected. We hope this information is helpful to you.
