Astigmatism and myopia are common eye conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. Understanding the difference between astigmatism vs myopia is crucial for anyone seeking clarity about their vision issues. In this article, we will discuss astigmatism vs myopia – their key differences, causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Astigmatism Vs Myopia: Unveiling The Differences
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error that occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, causing light to focus unevenly on the retina. This results in blurred or distorted vision at various distances. Unlike myopia, astigmatism affects the clarity of both near and far vision.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is also a refractive error. It is a condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close-up vision remains clear. This occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too steep, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
In Singapore, myopia is highly prevalent and among the highest in the world according to the Ministry Of Health. 65% of Singaporean children are myopic by Primary 6, and 83% of young adults are myopic. As such, Singapore is often labelled as the “Myopia Capital of the World”.
Key Similarities And Differences At A Glance
1. Affected Vision
- Astigmatism: Blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
- Myopia: Clear close-up vision but blurred distant vision.
2. Underlying Cause
- Astigmatism: Irregular shape of the cornea or lens.
- Myopia: Elongated eyeball or steep cornea.
3. Age Of Development
- Astigmatism: May be present at birth and may develop as we age. It can also worsen at any point in life.
- Myopia: May be present at birth and develop as we age. Typically stable for adults in their early 20s.
4. Common Symptoms
- Astigmatism: Blurred or distorted vision, eye strain, headaches.
- Myopia: Difficulty seeing distant objects, squinting, eye strain.
5. Diagnosis and Correction
- Astigmatism: Diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam. Corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery such as LASIK, LASEK, PRK, and SMILE.
- Myopia: Diagnosed through an eye exam. Corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery such as LASIK, LASEK, PRK, and SMILE.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.