Astigmatism in Children
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances. It often occurs alongside myopia, and Ortho K Specialty evaluates and manages both together.
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Signs of Astigmatism in Children
- Blurry or distorted vision at any distance
- Squinting or tilting the head to see more clearly
- Eye strain or headaches, especially after reading or screen time
- Difficulty with night vision
Because young children often don’t recognize or describe vision problems clearly, regular comprehensive eye exams are the most reliable way to catch astigmatism early.
How Astigmatism Is Diagnosed
A comprehensive eye exam, including corneal topography, allows Dr. Cho to measure the exact shape of your child’s cornea and determine the type and degree of astigmatism present.
Treatment Options for Astigmatism
Many children with astigmatism, especially when combined with myopia, are strong candidates for custom ortho-k lenses designed specifically for their corneal shape. Others may do well with toric soft contact lenses or glasses, depending on severity and lifestyle. During a contact lens exam, we’ll walk through which option fits your child best.
Astigmatism FAQs
Is astigmatism the same as myopia?
No, astigmatism and myopia are separate conditions, though they frequently occur together and are both correctable with the right lenses.
Can astigmatism get worse over time?
Astigmatism can change gradually as a child grows, which is why regular eye exams are important for keeping the prescription accurate.
Can children with astigmatism wear ortho-k lenses?
Many children with astigmatism are good candidates for custom-designed ortho-k lenses; Dr. Cho will evaluate corneal shape during a consultation.
How is astigmatism corrected?
Astigmatism can be corrected with glasses, toric soft contact lenses, or custom ortho-k lenses, depending on severity and lifestyle preferences.
How do I know if my child has astigmatism?
A comprehensive eye exam with corneal topography is the most reliable way to diagnose and measure astigmatism in children.