What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is indeed characterized as a condition causing blurred vision. This occurs due to an irregular shape of the cornea or lens in the eye, which prevents light from focusing properly on the retina. Instead of having a symmetrical shape, a cornea or lens affected by astigmatism is more oval-shaped, leading to distortions or blurriness in the visual field at various distances.

Understanding this definition provides clarity on how astigmatism affects vision, distinguishing it from other unrelated conditions. For example, color blindness pertains to the inability to perceive certain colors, while a defect in blood circulation affects the delivery of blood and nutrients throughout the body. Similarly, an eye infection relates to inflammatory processes caused by pathogens, which is distinctly different from the refractive issue presented in astigmatism. By recognizing these distinctions, you can see why blurred vision is the hallmark of astigmatism.