Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a condition of the eye that causes difficulties in seeing fine detail. A person with astigmatism may see vertical lines, e.g. walls, as leaning over, like the tower of Pisa.

Astigmatism occurs when the eye is egg-shaped. The more egg-shaped the eye is, the stronger the astigmatism. Most people have astigmatism in a mild form. Those with higher amounts of astigmatism may experience blurry vision, squinting, asthenopia, fatigue, or headaches.

If you think you have astigmatism, or if you have any vision problems at all, go see an ophthalmologist. Astigmatism can often be corrected by glasses, contact lenses, or eye surgery (e.g. LASIK surgery).