Name of the Condition

• Regular Astigmatism, Right Eye
• Also known as Astigmatism in the Right Eye

Summary

Regular astigmatism in the right eye is a common refractive error where the eye does not focus light evenly on the retina. This results in blurred or distorted vision due to the irregular shape of the cornea or lens.

Causes

Regular astigmatism is primarily caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens. It can be congenital, meaning present at birth, or develop over time, often due to genetic factors.

Risk Factors

• Family history of astigmatism or other refractive errors
• High myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness)
• Eye injuries or surgeries
• Certain corneal diseases

Symptoms

• Blurred or distorted vision
• Eye strain or discomfort
• Headaches
• Difficulty with night vision

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive eye exam
• Visual acuity test
• Keratometry (measuring the curvature of the cornea)
• Corneal topography (detailed mapping of the surface curvature of the cornea)

Treatment Options

• Prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses to compensate for the irregular curvature
• Orthokeratology (using specially designed contact lenses to reshape the cornea temporarily)
• LASIK or other refractive surgery options for eligible patients to correct the shape of the cornea

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With proper correction, individuals with regular astigmatism can achieve clear vision.
• Regular follow-up with an ophthalmologist is crucial to monitor changes in vision and update prescriptions as needed.

Complications

• If untreated, astigmatism may lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) in children, or significant eye strain and discomfort in adults.
• Persistent blurred vision can affect quality of life and daily activities.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Routine eye checks to catch vision changes early
• Use of protective eyewear to prevent eye injuries
• Maintaining overall eye health through a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients promoting eye health

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden changes in vision or persistent blurred vision
• Frequent headaches or eye strain when performing visual tasks
• Difficulty seeing at night or issues with glare

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org) for educational resources
• National Eye Institute (nei.nih.gov) for information on eye health and conditions

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the laterality (right eye) is correctly specified in the coding.
• Verify whether the astigmatism is regular or irregular, as treatment and management guidelines could vary.