While getting a comprehensive eye exam, you may hear your doctor mention that you have an astigmatism. While it may sound alarming, it means that one or both of the lenses of your eyes are shaped like an egg rather than round, like a ball. This affects how light is refracted in your eyes and can impact your vision.

A common and often inherited condition, astigmatism causes blurry vision at all distances (near and far). According to the Mayo Clinic, you may also experience the following symptoms:

• Distorted vision.
• Eyestrain or discomfort.
• Headaches.
• Difficulty with night vision.
• Squinting.

Usually, this condition is present at birth, but astigmatism may develop at other times as well. The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that certain eye diseases, injuries, or side effects from surgery can cause the condition. A 2025 study by JAMA Ophthalmology shows that astigmatism has been on the rise post-COVID-19 due to increased screen time (requiring near vision) and less outdoor time in children (which promotes distance vision). We will keep watch on this development and report if those numbers decrease as time goes on.

Corrective lenses or eye surgery are treatment options for astigmatism. Talk to your doctor about which one is right for you.