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Visual acuity test
Visual acuity test


Astigmatism

Treatment:

Glasses or hard contact lenses will correct astigmatism. Soft contact lenses do not work as well.



Expectations (prognosis):

Vision is usually normal with the correct glasses or contact lenses.



Complications:
  • There are complications associated with contact lenses (including the risk of corneal abrasion), which may develop if contact lenses are used.
  • Unequal astigmatism may cause amblyopia.


Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with the health care provider or ophthalmologist if vision problems worsen or do not improve with glasses or contact lenses.




Review Date: 7/24/2004
Reviewed By: Edward B. Feinberg, MD, MPH, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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