Astigmatism

Hello,

Could you please give me some information about the importance of axis in astigmatism?  How many degrees make a difference?  My new prescription for one eye shows a 15 degree difference compared to the current prescription.  Would it be OK if I keep wearing the current glasses or should I get new glasses right away?

I would really appreciate it if you could please answer my question.

Thank you,
Michelle

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

You certainly don't have to change the glasses if you don't want to (assuming you are an adult.)  The more accurate the axis is, the better your vision should be.  If the axis is off significantly then you could experience blurred vision, tilting of vision and eyestrain.  Each individual is different and some can tolerate a large disparity while others nothing even the smallest error.  It won't damage your eye to have an innacurate astigmatism correction unless you are under age 10 or so and have developing eyes that need the proper prescription to avoid amblyopia.  In children, it it much, much more critical for proper visual development.

Michael Kutryb, MD

[Michelle_tx]

Dr. Kutryb:

Thank you so much for your prompt answer and for the helpful info you gave me.  Sorry I forgot to mention that I am an adult (late 20's).  I was worried that difference in the astigmatism axis (15 degrees) could have damaged my eye (maybe the cornea surface).

Again, thank you for taking the time to answer my question.

Keep up the good work!
Michelle