What is astigmatism? 

Astigmatism is an eye condition that can affect adults and children. If you have astigmatism, your eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football, which can change the way light enters your eye and how you see things. 

You can be born with astigmatism, or it can develop later in life. It usually occurs alongside short-sightedness or long-sightedness. 

Been struggling with headaches or blurry vision? These are two symptoms of astigmatism. Take a look at the other symptoms below, and make sure you book an eye test to find out for sure what’s affecting your vision. 

What are the symptoms of astigmatism? 

Signs and symptoms of astigmatism may include: 

• Blurred or distorted vision 

• Eyestrain or eye discomfort 

• Headaches 

• Difficulty seeing at night 

• Squinting 

 In young children, a high astigmatism may cause a lazy eye. It's important this is spotted early so it can be treated. 

How is astigmatism diagnosed? 

Astigmatism is usually detected during a routine eye exam and is often easy to spot. If you are worried that you have astigmatism, book yourself in for an eye test so that we can help you get back to seeing clearly again.  

Most people with mild astigmatism may not notice symptoms, but routine eye exams almost always pick it up before it causes significant vision problems. Find out more about what happens during an eye test and why they are important here.

What happens after I've been diagnosed with astigmatism? 

If you’ve been diagnosed with astigmatism during your eye test, we can help get you living your life again without eye problems getting in the way. 

Astigmatism can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, or both if you want to switch up your look. Laser eye surgery can also fix astigmatism – we don’t currently offer the procedure, but you can get the lowdown on what to expect here. 

If you choose to correct your astigmatism with a pair of glasses, our collection perfectly blends style, comfort, and crystal-clear vision – suited to every face shape.

Book an appointment 

Ready to get your eyes checked? Book your eye test today online, in store, or by calling 0345 125 3752.* We can’t wait to see you.