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What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common refractive error in which the cornea or the eye's lens has an uneven curvature. This causes light to focus unevenly, resulting in blurred or distorted vision at near or far distances. Astigmatism may occur on its own or alongside myopia (short-sightedness) or hyperopia (long-sightedness). Mild astigmatism may not cause noticeable symptoms, while more significant astigmatism can interfere with reading, driving, and other daily activities.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Timely treatment matters because it provides clear, comfortable vision and can reduce eye strain, headaches, and difficulty seeing at night. In children, early detection matters because significant, untreated astigmatism can interfere with normal visual development and may contribute to amblyopia (lazy eye). Regular eye exams can identify astigmatism early and determine the best vision correction.

What are the common symptoms of astigmatism?

  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Headaches, particularly after prolonged visual tasks
  • Eye strain or tired eyes
  • Squinting to see more clearly
  • Difficulty focusing on objects
  • Difficulty seeing fine details
  • Visual discomfort when reading or using digital screens
  • Difficulty seeing clearly at night, including glare around lights

Causes and Risk Factors of Astigmatism

Causes

  • Uneven corneal shape
  • Irregular lens shape:
  • Astigmatism from birth
  • Eye Injury
  • Previous eye surgery
  • Corneal conditions like keratoconus and lenticonus

Risk Factors

  • Family history of astigmatism.
  • Childhood astigmatism
  • Previous eye trauma
  • Complications after eye surgery
  • Worsening refractive errors

Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Astigmatism in Thailand

  • Advances in refractive surgery and corneal imaging aim to improve treatment planning and the accuracy of vision correction. Corneal topography and tomography provide detailed information about corneal shape and are particularly useful when irregular astigmatism or corneal disease is suspected and when assessing suitability for refractive surgery. Research into artificial intelligence, improved eye tracking, and personalised treatment planning continues to explore ways to support refractive assessment and surgical precision.

Treatment options for Astigmatism

Refractive surgery: Refractive surgery can treat astigmatism, depending on its type and severity. Some of the surgical techniques are

LASIK (Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) : In this procedure, an eye surgeon makes a thin, hinged flap in the cornea, uses an excimer laser to sculpt the cornea's shape, and then repositions the flap.

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LASEK (laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy): The surgeon loosens the corneal surface (epithelium), which is a thin cover on the cornea. Utilizes an excimer laser to alter the curvature of the cornea and then repositions the loosened epithelium over the cornea.

PRK (Photorefractive keratectomy): This procedure is similar to LASEK, except the surgeon removes the epithelium. The epithelium regenerates to form the new corneal shape. You may need a bandaged contact lens for a few days after surgery.

SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction): This newer type of refractive surgery reshapes the cornea by using a laser to make a lens-shaped bit of tissue (lenticule) below the cornea's surface. The surgeon then extracts the lenticule through a very small incision.

  • Clinical assessment:
    • Visual acuity test: Determines the extent of vision.
    • Refraction test: Determines the amount and axis of astigmatism.
    • Slit-lamp examination: Examines the cornea, lens, and other structures at the front of the eye for abnormalities or scarring
  • Imaging tests:
    • Corneal topography: Provides a detailed map of the front of the cornea and demonstrates changes in the curvature of the front of the cornea.
    • Corneal tomography: Provides three-dimensional data on the front and back surfaces of the corneal thickness.
    • Anterior segment OCT: Creates cross-sectional images of the cornea and other front-of-the-eye structures.
    • Pachymetry: Measurement of the thickness of the cornea, and may be significant in determining eligibility for laser vision correction.
  • No specific medication treats astigmatism; treatment mainly focuses on correcting vision. If astigmatism results from another underlying eye disease, that disease may need specific medical treatment. Dryness or discomfort of the eyes may be experienced with blurring, which may be relieved with artificial tears but will not correct astigmatism.

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Hospitals for Astigmatism in Thailand

Piyavate Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Piyavate Hospital

Bangkok, Thailand

Piyavate Hospital located in Bangkok, Thailand is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Medicine Centre: Piyavate Hospital provides advanced holistic treatment for their patients. They offer a complete range of services and physicians that specialize in various fields like the endocrine system, the nervous system, kidney function, cardiovascular care, respiratory and digestive system. They pride themselves for the familial care that they provide to their patients.

  • Fertility and In-Vitro Fertilization Centre: Helping the couples who walk into the Piyavate Hospital to achieve their dream of having a family. They have a medical team that specializes in male and female fertility. They offer consultation services, fertility check-up for both men and women and complete IVF services. They have advanced IVF cycle treatment facilities that offer a high rate of success.

  • Bone and Joint Institute: Piyavate Hospital houses one of the frontrunners in Orthopaedic health care in all of SouthEast Asia. They offer a wide range of services and surgeries in their bone and joint institute that include hand surgery, hip and knee replacement surgery, spinal cord surgery, upper extremity surgery, arthroscopic surgery and sports medicine.

  • Eye and Lasik Centre: Piyavate Hospital is fully equipped with the latest and most advanced technology for eye care and houses highly skilled ophthalmologists, sub-specialists and qualified nurses.

  • Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre: One of the first hospitals to be equipped with the Hybrid Assistive Limb technology that will help a neurologically challenged patient to control the rehabilitation robot limb with a signal from their brain. The Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre at Piyavate Hospital uses this system encourage patients to regain muscle memory to walk and function normally.

Amenities for Patient’s Family:

Piyavate Hospital also offers additional apartment facilities to house the kin of the patients who come to visit them from distant places. A restaurant, a flower shop and a café are a few of the other amenities provided by the hospital.

These are the most popular services offered by the Piyavate Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. They also provide a plethora of other medical services that are listed below:

  • Diabetic Foot Centre

  • Check-up centre

  • Urology Centre 

  • Heart Institute

  • Paediatric Centre 

  • Obstetrics and Gynaecology Centre

  • Surgery Centre

  • Ear Nose Throat Centre

  • Haemodialysis Centre 

  • Dental Centre

  • X-Ray Centre

  • Gastroenterology Centre

  • Cancer Centre

  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

  • Emergency Services and Centre

  • Tele-medicine

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Bangkok Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Bangkok Hospital

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok Hospital located in Bangkok, Thailand is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • It is recognised for the application of the newest healthcare technology.
  • Blood analysis center that is not just the best in Thailand but in Asia Pacific as well.
  • Biomolecule center that is the seed of healthcare equipment for Thailand and overseas.
  • International affiliations and collaborations with universities and hospitals in Japan and the United States of America.
  • 11 hospitals are recognised as Centers of Excellence.
  • Known excellence in Trauma, Orthopedics, Cardiovascular, Neurology as well as Cancer Care.
  • There is a proper streamlined patient services process followed in Bangkok Dusit Medical Services, Bangkok, Thailand.
  • A well developed research center showcases the intent of the organisation to provide research based treatment opportunities to the patients.
  • The group has several Medical industry partnerships as well to ensure healthcare solutions.
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Sikarin Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Sikarin Hospital

Bangkok, Thailand

Apart from in-detail treatment procedures available, Sikarin Hospital located in Bangkok, Thailand has a wide variety of facilities available for International Patients. Some of the facilities which are provided by them are Airport Transfer, Choice of Meals, Interpreter, SIM, TV inside room. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Sikarin Hospital has a 258-bed capacity.
  • The hospital caters to the healthcare needs of both local and international patients.
  • Dedicated and skilled, experienced healthcare professionals are the strength of the organization.

It has also received many awards and certifications and some of them are:

  • APSIC CSSD Center of Excellence Award (2017-18)
  • Accreditation by the Joint Commission International
  • HA-Hospital/Healthcare Accreditation
  • HACCP Certificate of Registration
  • The Best Under a Billion Award 
  • ISO 14001 Environment Management System
  • ISO 9001 Quality Management System

The various clinics and centers of Sikarin Hospital are as follows:

  • Pediatric Institute
  • Orthopedic Institute
  • Dental Center
  • Health Check-up Center
  • Heart Disease Center
  • Cerebral and Nervous System Center
  • Internal Medicine Clinic
  • Diagnostic Radiology Center
  • Diagnostic Laboratory
  • Endoscopic Surgery Center
  • International Medical Center
  • Emergency Medical Center
  • Sikarin Beauty Center
  • Eye Center
  • Rehabilitation Center
  • Women’s Health Center
  • Ear, Nose and Throat Center
  • Specialized Internal Medicine Center
  • Center for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases

The medical technology present in Sikarin Hospital is outlined here:

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) magnetic resonance imaging
  • Hybrid Operating Room
  • Endoscopic Surgery - Gastrointestinal medical technology with tiny capsules
  • S.R. Laboratory
  • Cardiac Catheterization Lab 
  • Dental Operating Microscope, an innovative endoscopic root canal treatment
  • 128-Slice CT Scan
  • ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH OP 3D oral X-ray machine
  • Digital Mammogram
  • Optical Coherence Tomography
  • INFRARED (IR) IMAGING Surgical Technology “Cure Cancer” – Direct, Accurate, Fast
  • 3D endoscopic surgery technology
  • Laparoscopic Surgery
  • Dental Aerosol Suction Dental Intraoral Aerosol Remover
  • Comprehensive Dental Center
  • iTeroElement 5D
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Why Choose Thailand for Astigmatism Treatment?

  • Access to Eye-Care Specialists: Patients can explore ophthalmology centres that assess refractive errors and corneal conditions. Confirm the selected ophthalmologist's qualifications and experience with the proposed treatment.
  • Diagnostic Facilities: Some specialist centres offer corneal topography, tomography, and other tests needed to assess astigmatism and determine suitability for refractive surgery.
  • Individualised Treatment Planning: A comprehensive assessment helps determine whether surgery is appropriate or whether non-surgical vision correction is the safer option.
  • International Patient Support: Some hospitals provide appointment coordination, interpreter services, and assistance with travel arrangements. Patients should confirm the available services and follow-up arrangements before travelling.
  • Treatment Cost Comparison: Costs vary by procedure, hospital, diagnostic requirements, and individual circumstances. Patients should request an itemised estimate and clarify what is included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Usually, vision becomes clearer as soon as you use the correction you were prescribed, whether with glasses or contact lenses. Recovery after refractive surgery like LASIK or PRK depends on the procedure performed. Typically, visual acuity recovers quickly after LASIK surgery, while PRK may take several days to weeks for vision to stabilise. Your ophthalmologist will give you detailed instructions based on your procedure.

Yes. Astigmatism usually doesn’t stop you from walking or doing normal daily activities. However, blurred or distorted vision can make judging distances more difficult, especially if the astigmatism is severe or uncorrected. Wearing prescribed glasses or contact lenses can improve vision and make activities like walking, reading, and driving safer.

Yes. Several specialised eye hospitals in Thailand treat astigmatism using modern diagnostic and treatment technology. Depending on the patient's condition, evaluation may include corneal topography or tomography, automated refraction, and detailed eye examinations. Adequately equipped centres may also offer refractive procedures like LASIK, PRK, and other corneal procedures.

Yes. Major hospitals and specialised eye centres in Thailand offer services to international patients. These may include help coordinating appointments, reviewing medical records, developing treatment regimens, addressing language needs, arranging travel or accommodation, and managing follow-up. Patients must check the hospital’s specific international patient services before travelling.

When choosing a hospital, consider the ophthalmologist's experience with refractive and corneal conditions, the centre's diagnostic equipment, and whether the recommended treatment is right for your eyes. You can also ask about the doctor’s experience with your particular procedure, possible risks, expected recovery, and aftercare. Some also offer language support and help with follow-up care.

The success rate of astigmatism treatment depends on the type and severity of astigmatism and the treatment used. Glasses and properly prescribed contact lenses can correct refractive blur well. Refractive surgery outcomes can vary based on factors like corneal thickness and shape, prescription, age, eye health, and the surgical method used.

Ophthalmologists in Thailand frequently diagnose and treat refractive errors like astigmatism. Experience varies by doctor and hospital, so patients should ask about their training, qualifications, experience with the procedure, and the eye conditions they typically treat.

The risks vary by treatment. Glasses generally carry very few medical risks, though an incorrect prescription may cause ongoing blurred vision or discomfort. Contact lenses can cause dryness or irritation and, if you don’t use and care for them properly, eye infections. Refractive surgery may cause temporary dry eyes, glare, halos, fluctuating vision, under- or over-correction, and other complications. In rare cases, more serious corneal complications can occur.

Astigmatism usually isn’t caused by an injury, but an injury to the eye or cornea can sometimes cause or worsen irregular astigmatism. If you injure your eye, don’t rub or press it. Get medical care promptly, especially if you have severe pain, sudden vision changes, bleeding, sensitivity to light, or something in your eye. Don’t try to remove an object that is stuck in the eye yourself.

Astigmatism usually does not cause physical changes to the eye. Glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery can often correct it. In children, untreated astigmatism can affect vision development and may lead to lazy eye. Early eye exams are especially important for children.

Yes, especially if it is severe or not corrected properly. Astigmatism can cause blurry or distorted vision, headaches, eye strain, and trouble seeing clearly at different distances. These symptoms can make reading, studying, using screens, driving, playing sports, and other daily activities harder. The right vision correction can help you see much better.

Mild astigmatism may cause few or no symptoms. More severe, uncorrected astigmatism can lead to ongoing blurred vision and eye discomfort. In children, it may affect vision development and raise the risk of amblyopia (lazy eye). In adults, uncorrected astigmatism usually does not harm the eye, but ongoing symptoms can make daily activities harder.

Astigmatism cannot always be prevented. It may be caused by the natural shape of the cornea or lens and can run in families. Protect your eyes by wearing suitable eye protection during sports or hazardous work, avoiding eye injuries, using contact lenses correctly, and getting regular eye exams. If your vision becomes blurry or gets worse, have your eyes examined.

Yes. Anyone can have astigmatism, but it may be more common in people with a family history or certain corneal conditions. It can start in childhood and may change over time. Some types are linked to conditions that change the cornea's shape or structure.

Author

Pragun Gupta
Pragun Gupta

Doctor of Pharmacy

1 Year of Experience

Pragun Gupta is a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D.) professional from Teerthanker Mahaveer University with hands-on experience in clinical pharmacology, clinical research, and evidence-based medical writing. Through her clinical and research exposure, she has developed a strong interest in pharmacoeconomics, pharmacology, therapeutics, and pharmacovigilance.

As a medical writer, she works on medical and scientific research articles, patient education materials, and healthcare-focused content. Her clinical research and evidence-based writing experience enables her to translate complex medical information into clear, accurate, patient-friendly content while maintaining scientific credibility and medical accuracy. Her primary aim is to make healthcare information accessible and easy for patients and general readers to understand.

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Reviewer

Dr. Vidit Tripathi
Dr. Vidit Tripathi

ENT Surgeon

24 Years of Experience

One of the finest ENT Surgeon in New Delhi, India, Dr. Vidit Tripathi, has worked with several world class multidisciplinary hospitals over the years. Dr. Vidit Tripathi has over 24+ years of experience in his field. The specialist treats and manages a wide range of conditions such as Goiter, Radiation Necrosis in Neck, Neck Injury, Perforates Eardrum View More

Last Reviewed - January 2026