Many people with astigmatism believe that they’re limited to wearing glasses for clear vision. They might have heard that contacts are uncomfortable or just won’t work for their prescription. However, modern contact lens technology has come a long way, offering more choices than ever before for astigmatism.
The short answer is yes, you can absolutely wear contacts if you have astigmatism. This guide explores which lenses tend to work for people with astigmatism and how we can help you find a comfortable fit for your eyes.
If you’re looking to make the switch to contacts, the first step is a comprehensive eye exam.
What Is Astigmatism?
How an Irregular Eye Shape Affects Vision
A normally shaped cornea is round, like a basketball. With astigmatism, however, the cornea is shaped more like a football. This irregular curve causes light to focus on multiple points inside the eye instead of just one.
This uneven focus results in distorted or blurry vision at all distances. It’s a very common refractive error that can be easily corrected with the right eyewear.
Common Signs of Astigmatism
You might have astigmatism if you experience symptoms like:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Frequent squinting to see clearly
- Eye strain, especially after screen time
- Headaches
- Difficulty with night vision
How Specialty Contacts Correct Your Vision
The Design of Toric Lenses
Toric lenses provide different focusing powers on different parts of the lens. This compensates for the irregular, football-like shape of astigmatic eyes and allows light to focus correctly.
Why a Precise Fit Matters for Clear Sight
For a toric lens to work properly, it must stay in a specific position and orientation on your eye. To achieve this, toric lenses have design features that keep them fixed in place and prevent them from rotating. This stability helps maintain consistent, clear vision throughout the day.
Can Contacts Seem Blurry with Astigmatism?
If a toric lens isn’t fitted correctly, it can rotate out of place and cause temporary blurriness. This is why a professional fitting is so important. We take precise measurements to make sure your lenses sit exactly where they need to be for sharp sight.
Your Contact Lens Options for Astigmatism
Soft Toric Lenses for Comfort & Convenience
Soft toric lenses are the most popular type of contacts for astigmatism. They offer the comfort of soft materials and are easy to adapt to. You can find them in daily, bi-weekly, and monthly replacement schedules to fit your lifestyle.
Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) Lenses
RGP lenses are a firm type of contact that holds its shape on the eye. They’re highly breathable and can offer exceptionally sharp vision. People with more significant astigmatism often find great success with RGP lenses.
Hybrid & Scleral Lenses for Specific Needs
Hybrid lenses have a rigid center for clear optics and a soft outer ring for comfort. Scleral lenses are larger lenses that vault over the cornea, which can be great for certain types of astigmatism or corneal irregularities.
Is My Astigmatism Too Significant for Contacts?
With today’s lens technology, including scleral and RGP options, we can find solutions for many levels of astigmatism. A comprehensive exam with your optometrist is the first step to determine the right choice for you. There’s a good chance that we can find a contact lens that works.
Contacts vs. Glasses
Advantages of Contact Lenses
Many people prefer contacts for their unobstructed field of view. Your peripheral vision is clear, and there are no frames to get in the way. This freedom is great for sports, outdoor activities, or simply for a different look.
Considerations for Contact Lens Wear
There are a few things to keep in mind when considering contact lenses. Toric lenses can cost more than non-toric contacts, and some lens types may have a brief adjustment period. We’ll discuss these factors with you, so that you can make an informed decision.
A Matter of Personal Preference
The choice between contacts and glasses often comes down to your lifestyle, comfort, and personal preference. You don’t have to choose just one type. Many people enjoy the flexibility of having both contacts and glasses to suit different activities.
The Path to Comfortable Contact Lens Wear
The Importance of a Professional Fitting
A contact lens fitting for astigmatism is different from a regular eye exam. The process involves precise measurements of your corneal curvature to find the exact lens size, shape, and prescription.
What to Expect from Your Eye Doctor in Vancouver, WA
As your eye doctor in Vancouver, WA, we take a collaborative approach to eye health. We’ll talk about your lifestyle, vision goals, and daily activities. This helps us recommend lens options with your comfort and clarity in mind.
Daily Habits for Healthy Eyes
We’re also here to help you build healthy habits for contact lens wear. Simple practices, like following the 20-20-20 rule to reduce digital eye strain and committing to a routine of proper lens hygiene, can make a big difference in your daily comfort.
At Precision Eye Care, our team is dedicated to finding an eye care solution for you. Whether you’re interested in toric contact lenses, looking for dry eye therapies, or exploring our aesthetic services, we’re here to help.
Schedule an appointment with your optometrist in Vancouver, WA to start your journey toward clear, comfortable vision.
