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Astigmatism is a refractive error usually caused by an irregular curvature on the surface of the eye. As light enters the eye it is focused on two points instead of a single point needed for clear vision. Normally the curve on the surface is equal from left to right and from top to bottom, giving the surface of the eye an equally round shape like a ball.

With astigmatism one of these curves is elongated making the surface of the eye oval shaped. This could, for instance, cause the light being refracted by the horizontal axis of the cornea to focus on a different point than the light being refracted by the vertical axis.

This causes two points of focus instead of one. If the points are focused before the retina the astigmatism is considered nearsighted or myoptic. If the points are focused past the retina it is considered farsighted or hyperoptic.

Symptoms of astigmatism include headaches, eye strain and fatigue. Severe astigmatism can cause a blurriness of images at all distances, while milder cases may cause blurriness only at certain distances. If you suspect you are suffering from astigmatism, ask your doctor for advice. Successful corrective measures include contact lens or refractive surgery.

Contact lenses are a popular solution for people who need vision correction. However, you need an extensive eye examination to determine what type of contacts will work best for you. Once you receive your contacts it is important to follow proper steps to ensure that your contacts are clear, clean, moist and undamaged.

It is important to develop a routine when preparing and inserting your contacts. First, wash your hands with soap and water and dry them on a lint free towel. Next, rinse your contact lens with the proper solution to make sure it is clean and free of dust. Then, making sure that your finger is dry, place the lens on the tip of your finger and check to see if the lens is inside out. The lens should appear to have a U shape. If it is a U shape with the top edges flared out, the lens is inside out. If you do apply the lens inside out it will be uncomfortable, but will not cause any damage. Once the lens is on the tip of your finger properly you are ready to insert it.