Name of the Condition

• Regular astigmatism, left eye
• Astigmatism; Astigmatism of the left eye

Summary

Regular astigmatism in the left eye is a common refractive error where the eye's cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision in that eye. This condition affects how light is focused on the retina, leading to vision problems.

Causes

Regular astigmatism is often caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens. It is primarily attributed to genetics and is usually present from birth. It can also develop after an eye injury or surgery.

Risk Factors

• Family history of astigmatism
• Being born with genes that predispose to eye shape abnormalities
• A history of eye surgery or injury

Symptoms

• Blurred or distorted vision
• Eye strain or discomfort
• Headaches
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Frequent squinting

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive eye examination
• Refraction tests to determine the lens prescription
• Keratometry or corneal topography to measure curvature of the cornea

Treatment Options

• Prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct the refraction
• Refractive surgery, such as LASIK, to reshape the cornea and correct vision

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate corrective lenses or surgery, most people with regular astigmatism achieve clear vision and good eye health. Regular follow-up with an eye care professional is essential to monitor vision changes and update prescriptions as needed.

Complications

If left untreated, regular astigmatism can lead to persistent eye strain and headaches. In severe cases, it may contribute to amblyopia (lazy eye), particularly in children.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular eye check-ups to detect changes in vision early
• Wearing prescribed eyewear consistently
• Protecting eyes from injury with proper eyewear during activities

When to Seek Professional Help

• Noticeable changes in vision clarity
• Increasing eye strain or headaches
• Difficulty in performing daily tasks due to vision issues

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology (www.aao.org)
• National Eye Institute (www.nei.nih.gov)
• Vision Council (www.thevisioncouncil.org)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct assignment of ICD code H52.222 for regular astigmatism of the left eye.
• Verify patient's medical records for specific eye documentation to avoid incorrect coding for the wrong eye.