Home test methods to find out if you have astigmatism

Astigmatism is an eye condition where light does not hit the back of the eye evenly. It occurs when the cornea or lens is not perfectly round. Instead, they are shaped like a soccer ball. This can make objects appear blurry or distorted. An eye doctor can easily diagnose and treat astigmatism, but there are also ways to check if you have astigmatism at home. Here's what you need to know.

How do you know if you have astigmatism using eye charts and dials?

These are indeed images that show straight lines from different angles. When you have astigmatism, some of the bold lines look blurrier than others. It may look like some have been drawn with a black marker and others are faded. This is because the abnormal curve of your eye makes certain parts of the image appear more or less clear.

Here are some examples you can find online:

All diagrams work the same way. You should stand or sit 2-3 feet away from your computer or smartphone screen. If you have glasses that do not correct your astigmatism, you can keep them. Cover your left eye first. Look at the picture with your right eye. Look for differences in the lines. Do the same with the other eye.

If one of the lines looks darker or thicker than the others, you may have astigmatism. If the vertical lines seem sharper, you have ruler astigmatism. If the horizontal lines stand out, it is a “countercurrent” astigmatism.

Test graph

Visual acuity tests

Astigmatism often causes your vision to be blurry, both far and near. You can look at letters on a board to see if your vision is clear. Online tests often use the “Tumbling E” method. You do not need to know how to read to use this method. It is therefore a good option for children.

To take the test:

1. Sit one meter away from your screen.

2. Click on the arrow that indicates in which direction the letter E points.

To use an eye chart at home, you need:

1. Print the table.

2. Place the painting on a windowless wall.

3. Place a chair 3 meters from the wall. Sit on the chair.

4. Make sure the card is at eye level.

5. Cover one eye.

6. Read the smallest letters that you can see clearly.

7. Repeat with the other eye.

For the tumbling E chart, you can use your finger to show which direction the E is pointing.

By age 5, children should be able to read the line that says 20/30. Older children and adults with normal vision should be able to read the 20/20 line. If not, it means your view is not as clear as it could be. Remember that conditions other than astigmatism can cause blurry vision. You can also have astigmatism even if you have clear vision.

When to consult a doctor?

You may not have to do anything for mild astigmatism. A professional eye exam will tell you. Glasses, contacts, or surgery can help you see better.

Children with astigmatism may not tell you about their vision problems. It is important to watch for certain signs. If they cannot see well, they may start having difficulty in school. Ask your child's doctor how often he should have his eyes checked.

Consult an ophthalmologist if you or your child have symptoms such as:

Source:

WebMD (2020): “At-Home Ways to Check Eyesight for Astigmatism”