Astigmatism is classified as which of the following?

Astigmatism is a refractive error of the eye that occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina. This condition often results in blurred or distorted vision at various distances. It is important to clarify that astigmatism is not synonymous with nearsightedness, which specifically refers to a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly.

Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is characterized by a specific alignment of the eye's focusing power, while astigmatism can coexist with nearsightedness or farsightedness but fundamentally describes a different defect in vision related to the shape of the eye. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial, as it informs both diagnosis and treatment methods for individuals experiencing varied visual impairments.