Q: I’m confused. Is it a “stigmatism” or an “Astigmatism”? How common is it, and can it be corrected?

A: Dear confused, The second version is correct. Astigmatism is a common visual condition in which the front surface of the eye, the cornea, is not perfectly shaped. The cornea is more football-shaped rather than spherical - like a basketball – and this can cause blurred vision at all distances, eye strain, and sometimes headaches. Astigmatism is very common. In fact, most people have a little bit of astigmatism. Babies are born with a lot, and it usually gradually goes away by the time they’re ready for kindergarten. Blurriness caused by astigmatism can be corrected for with glasses, contacts or even laser surgery. What is right for you would best be determined by you and your eye doctor.

-Dr. Gabe