What is the difference between astigmatism and myopia?

What is the difference between astigmatism and myopia?

Astigmatism and myopia are both refractive errors, but they affect vision differently. Myopia, or nearsightedness, means you can see close objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. Astigmatism, on the other hand, causes blurred vision at all distances due to an irregular shape of the cornea or lens.

How do I know if I have astigmatism or myopia?

You can determine if you have astigmatism or myopia through a comprehensive eye exam. An eye care professional will perform tests to measure how your eyes focus light and can diagnose any refractive errors.

What are the common symptoms of each condition?

Common symptoms of myopia include difficulty seeing distant objects, while astigmatism may cause blurred or distorted vision at all distances, along with eye strain and headaches.

Can both conditions occur at the same time?

Yes, it's possible to have both astigmatism and myopia simultaneously. This is known as compound myopic astigmatism, where both conditions affect your vision.