Irregular Astigmatism

Irregular astigmatism is a condition where the cornea or lens of the eye is shaped irregularly, causing light to be scattered as it enters the eye, rather than focusing sharply on the retina. This results in blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Unlike regular astigmatism, where the cornea has a more uniform, but slightly oval shape, irregular astigmatism can have multiple curvatures or other distortions, making it more difficult to correct with traditional eyeglasses or contact lenses. Irregular astigmatism is often associated with corneal conditions or injuries that disrupt the smooth, uniform surface of the cornea.

• Causes: Irregular astigmatism is often caused by eye conditions such as keratoconus, where the cornea becomes progressively thinner and cone-shaped, or corneal scars from injury, surgery, or infections. It can also occur after refractive surgeries like LASIK or PRK if there are complications during healing, or due to corneal dystrophies.
• Symptoms: People with irregular astigmatism experience blurred or distorted vision, double vision, and halos around lights. These symptoms can occur at both near and far distances, and are often more severe than those seen with regular astigmatism. In some cases, vision may fluctuate throughout the day or in different lighting conditions.
• Treatment: Irregular astigmatism is more challenging to correct than regular astigmatism. Specialized contact lenses, such as rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses, can provide a smoother refractive surface over the irregular cornea, improving vision. In more severe cases, corneal cross-linking, corneal implants, or even corneal transplants may be recommended to stabilize or reshape the cornea. Regular follow-ups with an eye care specialist are important for managing this condition effectively.