Protect Your Vision from Astigmatism with Expert Eye Care
Clear vision impacts every part of daily life — from work to learning to enjoying the world around you. At Della Optique, we offer comprehensive eye exams to detect and manage astigmatism, ensuring your eyes stay healthy and your vision remains sharp and comfortable.
Astigmatism : Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
If you’ve been told you have astigmatism, you’re far from alone. It’s one of the most common vision conditions worldwide — and thankfully, one of the most treatable.
At Della Optique, Dr. Della Chow provides personalized eye exams and vision correction for patients with astigmatism, helping you see clearly and comfortably in every part of your day.
Whether you’re noticing blurred vision, eye strain, or headaches after long hours at a screen, Dr. Chow can diagnose the cause and create a customized plan to restore clarity.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error — meaning the eye’s shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina.
In a normally shaped eye, the cornea (the clear front surface) is round, like a basketball. With astigmatism, the cornea or lens is slightly oval — more like a football.
This uneven curve causes light to focus at multiple points instead of one, leading to blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
Common Symptoms of Astigmatism
Astigmatism can range from mild to more noticeable, but common symptoms include:
Blurry or fuzzy vision (near or far)
Headaches after reading or screen time
Squinting to bring objects into focus
Eye strain or fatigue
Difficulty seeing clearly at night
If these symptoms sound familiar, an eye exam with Dr. Della Chow can determine whether astigmatism — or another condition — is the cause.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is usually present from birth and often runs in families, but it can also develop or change over time due to:
An irregularly shaped cornea or lens
Eye injuries or scarring
Complications from eye surgery
A condition called keratoconus, where the cornea becomes thinner and cone-shaped
Contrary to popular belief, you can’t “cause” astigmatism by reading in dim light or sitting too close to the TV — those are just myths.
How Dr. Della Chow Diagnoses Astigmatism
Diagnosing astigmatism is simple, precise, and completely painless. During a comprehensive eye exam, Dr. Chow uses advanced tools such as:
Visual acuity testing: to measure how well you see at different distances
Refraction testing: to determine your exact prescription
Corneal topography: to map the shape and curve of your cornea
These measurements allow Dr. Chow to identify the exact degree and axis of your astigmatism, so your correction is perfectly tailored to your eyes.
Astigmatism Treatment Options
The good news? Astigmatism is easily managed. With the right correction, you can achieve sharp, comfortable vision again.
1. Eyeglasses
For many people, glasses are the easiest and most effective treatment. Dr. Chow prescribes lenses with a cylindrical correction to balance out your eye’s natural curve.
They’re safe, affordable, and a great option for both adults and children.
2. Contact Lenses
If you prefer contacts, Dr. Chow offers advanced lens options for astigmatism, including:
Toric soft lenses: specially designed to stay in place and correct your unique prescription
Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses: provide crisp vision for higher levels of astigmatism
Hybrid lenses: combine the comfort of soft lenses with the precision of rigid optics
Dr. Chow will help you choose the type that fits your lifestyle and comfort needs best.
3. Refractive Surgery
For patients looking to reduce dependence on glasses or contacts, laser eye surgery such as LASIK, PRK, or SMILE can correct astigmatism by reshaping the cornea.
Dr. Chow works closely with trusted eye surgeons in Vancouver to determine your candidacy and guide you through the process.
Living Comfortably with Astigmatism
With the right diagnosis and treatment, most people with astigmatism enjoy clear, comfortable vision. Dr. Chow recommends:
Scheduling eye exams every 1–2 years (or sooner if vision changes)
Updating your prescription regularly
Monitoring children for early signs of vision issues
Following contact lens care instructions closely
Small adjustments can make a big difference in your day-to-day visual comfort.
Why Choose Dr. Della Chow for Astigmatism Care?
At Della Optique, your care goes beyond a quick vision check. Dr. Della Chow takes the time to understand your unique eyes, lifestyle, and visual needs. You’ll receive:
Comprehensive, personalized eye exams
Access to advanced diagnostic technology
Honest recommendations for glasses, lenses, or surgery
A calm, welcoming environment focused on patient care
Dr. Chow’s goal is simple — to help you see clearly, comfortably, and confidently.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers
Can astigmatism get worse over time?
Yes, astigmatism can change gradually as the shape of your cornea or lens changes. Regular eye exams help monitor and update your prescription as needed.
Can astigmatism be cured permanently?
While glasses and contact lenses correct vision, only refractive surgery (like LASIK or PRK) can permanently reshape the cornea to reduce or eliminate astigmatism.
How do I know if I have astigmatism?
Common signs include blurry or distorted vision, headaches, squinting, and eye strain—especially after reading or using screens. An eye exam is the only way to confirm it.
Is astigmatism common in children?
Yes, astigmatism can appear early in life and may affect learning or reading. Regular eye exams for kids ensure early detection and proper correction.
Can you wear contact lenses if you have astigmatism?
Absolutely. Specially designed toric contact lenses or rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses can correct astigmatism and provide clear, comfortable vision.
Book Your Astigmatism Eye Exam in Vancouver
If you’ve been struggling with blurred vision, headaches, or eye strain, it may be time for a professional assessment. Astigmatism is common, manageable, and best treated early.
Book an eye exam with Dr. Della Chow at Della Optique in Vancouver and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision today.