Can Astigmatism Get Worse Over Time?

Astigmatism is a common vision condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, leading to blurred or distorted vision at all distances. While some people may have mild astigmatism that remains stable, others may notice changes over time. At Tres Vision Group, our eye care specialists provide advanced diagnostic tools and customized treatment options to help patients manage astigmatism effectively. Understanding whether astigmatism can worsen and how to prevent further vision problems is key to maintaining clear eyesight.

How Astigmatism Can Change

Astigmatism can fluctuate due to a variety of factors. While many cases are stable, some individuals experience a worsening of their condition, especially if underlying causes are not addressed. The most common reasons astigmatism may progress include:

• Natural eye changes – The shape of the cornea can continue evolving, particularly during childhood and young adulthood.
• Eye strain and prolonged screen use – Staring at digital screens for extended periods can contribute to discomfort and vision changes, though it does not directly cause astigmatism.
• Keratoconus and corneal disorders – In some cases, progressive corneal thinning disorders like keratoconus can cause astigmatism to become more severe.
• Eye trauma or surgery – Injuries or certain eye procedures can alter the cornea’s shape, leading to increased astigmatism.
• Aging and cataracts – As the eye’s lens naturally changes over time, new refractive errors, including increased astigmatism, may develop.

Symptoms of Worsening Astigmatism

If your astigmatism is progressing, you may notice:

• Increasingly blurred or distorted vision
• Frequent headaches or eye strain
• Difficulty with night vision and increased glare
• More frequent prescription changes for glasses or contact lenses

Regular eye exams can detect subtle changes in astigmatism before they significantly impact your vision.

How to Manage and Treat Astigmatism

Even if astigmatism worsens over time, effective treatment options can keep your vision clear. The best approach depends on the severity of the condition:

• Glasses and contact lenses – Prescription lenses correct the uneven curvature of the cornea, providing clearer vision.
• Specialty contact lenses – For those with more advanced astigmatism, toric lenses or rigid gas-permeable lenses may offer better clarity.
• Laser vision correction – Procedures such as LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea for long-term correction in certain cases.
• Corneal cross-linking – If an underlying condition like keratoconus is worsening astigmatism, this treatment can help stabilize the cornea.

Schedule an Eye Exam at Tres Vision Group

If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, the eye doctors at Tres Vision Group can help determine whether your astigmatism is worsening and provide personalized treatment options. Widely regarded as Central Florida’s best eye team, call our offices in Melbourne, Merritt Island, or Suntree, FL at (321) 984-3200 to make an appointment.