Astigmatism is a condition in which one or both eyes has a misshapen cornea. In a normal eye, the cornea is symmetrically curved. In an astigmatic eye, areas of the cornea are steeper or flatter than normal, causing areas of your vision to be blurred. Although astigmatism often occurs on its own, it can also occur in combination with nearsightedness or farsightedness.

Astigmatism is usually present from birth and tends to remain constant, neither improving nor deteriorating with time.

Signs and Symptoms

Blurred areas in the field of vision of one or both eyes

Distorted vision in one or both eyes, typically when looking at vertical, horizontal, or diagonal lines

Conventional Medical Treatment

An ophthalmologist or optometrist can diagnose astigmatism with a thorough examination. Corrective glasses or contact lenses are usually prescribed to counteract the unevenness of one or both corneas. Lenses also can be made to address a combination of astigmatism and nearsighted?ness or farsightedness.

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Nutrition and Supplementation

Nutritionists encourage adequate intake of nutrients necessary for healthy eye function. Protein (found in meat, eggs, poultry, and fish) and vitamin A (found in yellow fruits and vegetables) are required for proper eye function.

Include the following daily supplements to maintain healthy eye function:

Most Important

vitamin C (5000 IU)

vitamin B complex (100 mg), supplemented with vitamin B2 (50 mg)

vitamin A (10,000 to 15,000 IU; do not exceed 8000 IU daily if you are pregnant)

vitamin E (400 IU)

zinc (20 to 25 mg)

Also Recommended

calcium and magnesium (standard dose)

chromium (300 mcg)

omega 3 and 6 and DHA capsules (as directed on label)

grape seed extract (as directed on label)

(Consult your healthcare provider regarding the duration of treatment.)

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture Chinese practitioners believe that most vision disorders are due to impaired liver functioning, so an acupuncturist may treat astigmatism by working to strengthen the liver and restore energy imbalances associated with that organ. Commonly used acupoints in the treatment of astigmatism include Bladder 1, Stomach 1, Liver 4, and Triple Warmer 6.

Studies indicate that stress may actually aggravate or promote astigmatism in children, so acupuncture may be used to relieve anxiety and promote relaxation, thereby reducing the severity of the ailment.

Acupressure To help prevent an astigmatic condition from worsening, an acupressure practitioner may work on points around the eyes, nose temples, and cheeks.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Consult a qualified Chinese medical practitioner regarding treatment. Frequently, herbs are used to treat liver problems, which are believed to be associated with astigmatism.