Last Updated on November 18, 2025 by Aaron Barriga
Astigmatism is more common than most people think. About 33% of people in the U.S. have astigmatism, often dealing with blurred or distorted vision caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens.
While mild astigmatism may stay stable, factors like aging, genetics, eye strain, and past eye injuries can cause it to worsen over time. Understanding what contributes to these changes can help you spot new symptoms early and know when to see an eye care professional.
What Causes Astigmatism to Worsen?
There can be a number of reasons leading to your astigmatism getting worse. During your appointments, your eye doctor will monitor the following factors:
- Ageing: Your vision may be impacted as you age due to changes in the curvature of your cornea and lens.
- Eye Injuries: Corneal abnormalities brought on by eye damage might exacerbate astigmatism.
- Family History: You may be more susceptible to increasing symptoms if astigmatism runs in your family.
- Keratoconus: This disorder distorts vision by causing the cornea to weaken and swell gradually.
- Corneal Scarring: Astigmatism may worsen because of abnormalities caused by corneal scarring.
- Corneal Thinning: Your vision may deteriorate if your cornea thins, changing its curve and form.
- By Birth: Some people are born with an irregularly shaped cornea, predisposing them to astigmatism.
- High Nearsightedness (Myopia): Severe myopia can increase the likelihood of astigmatism worsening.
- High Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Similarly, extreme hyperopia can contribute to vision changes over time.
- Post-surgery Complications: Surgeries on the eye can sometimes lead to changes in corneal shape, affecting astigmatism.
Remember, identifying the causes of your astigmatism is the first step in addressing it. So, be sure to consult with your eye care professional regularly! There are many therapy alternatives available. With specialty contact lenses, refractive surgery, or corrective lenses, your eye doctor can assist you.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse?
Not only astigmatism but any refractive error can aggravate with time if left untreated at an early stage. The simultaneous presence of myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is one of the key factors that helps astigmatism progress further.
Therefore, it is recommended to visit your eye specialist at least once a year so you can detect your eye problems at an early stage and prevent worsening astigmatism.
Also Read – What does Astigmatism Look Like?
Who is at Risk of Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common problem, and while it can happen to anyone, there are people with a higher chance of developing it due to certain factors. You are more likely at the risk of astigmatism if you have:
- A thin cornea
- A family history of astigmatism
- A history of eye surgeries. This can include cataracts and other surgeries as well.
- Excessive farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Extreme nearsightedness (myopia)
There are several effects of this condition, as normal vision differs from how people with astigmatism see. But generally, people who have it have difficulty driving at night.
Also Read:: What is Astigmatism? 3 Methods of Astigmatism Treatment
How to Take Care of Your Astigmatic Eyes?
Even though most individuals are born with astigmatism, you can significantly enhance the health of your eyesight by adopting certain lifestyle and eye care practices. You can keep your eyes happy and healthy by following these helpful tips:
- Lessen Eye Strain: Make it a habit to avoid using screens for long periods. One way to reduce eye strain is to keep a safe distance from devices such as phones, tablets, and computers.
- Keep Your Eyes Safe: Wearing glasses or contact lenses can help you see better and protect your vision. Make sure you are taking the right prescription for the best results.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Resist the urge to rub your eyes. This could change your cornea’s shape and make your astigmatism worse.
- Employ Corrective Lenses: Wear any corrective lenses that your physician has recommended. They can prevent unnecessary eye strain and improve your overall vision.
- Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Don’t underestimate the importance of routinely visiting your eye doctor. They can help you monitor the health of your eyes and adjust your medications as needed.
By following these simple yet effective methods, you can maintain excellent eye health and make the most of your time with astigmatism. Remember that improved eye health now can lead to improved eyesight later!
Also Read:: 8 Eye Relaxation Exercises That Actually Work to Improve Your Vision
Regular eye exams play a vital role in identifying and treating astigmatism promptly, allowing for early intervention.
Your journey towards a clearer and healthier vision can start right now. Schedule an eye exam at Insight Vision Center and take the first step toward reclaiming your visual clarity!
In conclusion, astigmatism is a common vision concern that can cause blurred vision, eye strain, and everyday discomfort. Understanding its causes and symptoms helps you take control of your eye health and make informed decisions about your care.
If you suspect you might have astigmatism or it has been a while since you had a full eye examination, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at InSight Vision Center. The doctors provide a personalized and in-depth evaluation that goes beyond checking your prescription. They screen for eye diseases, examine your cornea, retina, eye alignment, intraocular pressure, and more to protect your vision and support long-term eye health.
Protect your vision from worsening astigmatism. Visit us for a quick and thorough eye exam.
FAQs – What Causes Astigmatism to Worsen?
Dr. Azhar I. Salahuddin is an ophthalmologist and is fellowship-trained in cornea, external diseases, and refractive surgery. Dr. Salahuddin has been performing cataract surgery for over 19 years and specializes ocular reconstruction, corneal transplantation surgery as well as vision correction through a variety of intraocular lenses. Dr. Salahuddin is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and was trained at Boston University.
