Many people think that glasses are the only option for correcting astigmatism, but this isn’t actually the case. Modern advancements in optometry make it possible for people with astigmatism to wear contact lenses comfortably and effectively.
You can absolutely wear contact lenses if you have astigmatism. The trick is finding the right type of lens. Soft toric lenses and rigid gas permeable lenses are popular contact lens options for people with astigmatism.
If you’re unsure which lenses are right for you, that’s alright! You don’t have to make this decision alone. A contact lens fitting with our team can determine which lens type is the best fit for your visual needs and lifestyle.
All About Astigmatism
Along with nearsightedness and farsightedness, astigmatism is one of the most common refractive errors. Refractive errors are eye conditions that alter the eye’s physical shape, leading to some degree of blurry vision.
An astigmatism occurs when the eye’s cornea or lens has an irregular shape (resembling more of a football or an oval).
An eye with no refractive error is round. When incoming light enters the eye, that light focuses directly on the retina, resulting in clear vision. Conversely, an eye with an irregular shape (as in astigmatism) prevents light from focusing properly onto the retina, leading to blurry, distorted, or fuzzy vision at all distances.
The severity of a person’s astigmatism depends on the degree to which their cornea or lens curves, and mild cases may not cause noticeable symptoms. In some instances, however, astigmatism presents alongside other refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia, further affecting overall visual clarity.
For many people, corrective lenses are necessary to restore clear and comfortable vision.
Are Contact Lenses a Good Option for Astigmatism?
Eyeglasses are a versatile, no-brainer option for correcting most refractive errors. While they make for a stylish and functional everyday accessory, some people prefer the convenience, look, and feel of contact lenses.
Fortunately, contact lenses are also a convenient and effective way to correct astigmatism! However, there are a few factors to consider.
For instance, contacts sit directly on the cornea, whereas glasses sit comfortably on the bridge of your nose. This means that contacts require more maintenance and care than glasses (hence annual eye exams and fittings); however, they also offer a more natural field of view.
Besides, contacts are great for people who lead active lifestyles or simply prefer the aesthetics of going-glasses-free.
With that said, not all contacts are equal when it comes to correcting astigmatism. Choosing the right lens to match your lifestyle and visual needs is important for ideal comfort and clarity. A contact lens exam and fitting make this possible.
Types of Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Our eyes vary in shape, size, and visual needs. Different contact lenses cater to different combinations of these factors. The two most popular lens options for correcting astigmatism are soft toric lenses and rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses.
Soft Toric Contact Lenses
Soft contact lenses are easily the most popular lens type. However, a regular soft contact cannot effectively correct for astigmatism. Soft toric contact lenses are a better solution. These contacts have different powers throughout the lens to correct for the cornea’s asymmetrical shape.
Benefits of toric lenses include:
- Comfort: Made from soft, flexible materials, toric lenses are often very comfortable for long hours of wear.
- Stability: Toric lenses are designed to stay in a specific orientation on the eye. Features like thin-thick zones or small ballast weights help the lens remain stable and aligned, for clear vision throughout the day.
- Availability: Toric lenses are offered in a wide range of prescriptions, materials, and wearing schedules.
With that said, soft toric lenses can be harder to fit for some forms of astigmatism, as the lenses need to align with the eye at specific points. This makes them ideal for people with mild to moderate astigmatism.
Fortunately, contact lens options with Village Optical don’t end here.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
RGP lenses, also known as hard contact lenses, are another excellent option for people with astigmatism. These lenses are smaller and firmer than soft lenses, and though they require an initial adjustment period, many people come to love their long-term benefits!
These benefits include:
- Crisper Vision: RGP lenses provide exceptional clarity, since they maintain their shape on the eye’s surface, compensating for any corneal irregularities.
- Durability: Made of rigid materials, RGP lenses are very durable and long-lasting.
- Custom Fit: Each lens is custom-fit for your eyes, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for solid visual correction.
- Cost Effective: Although the upfront cost is higher than toric lenses, RGP lenses last longer, often making them a cost-effective choice over time.
Finding the Right Lens: Factors to Consider
When deciding on the right contact lenses for astigmatism, several factors come into play. These include:
- Prescription Needs: The severity of your astigmatism and any additional refractive errors will determine the type of lenses suitable for you.
- Lifestyle: Whether you lead an active lifestyle, stare at screens for hours, or need lenses for special occasions, there’s a lens to suit your needs.
- Wearing Schedule: Some lenses are designed for daily disposal, while others are worn and replaced on a longer schedule.
Experience Sharp Vision
If you have astigmatism, glasses aren’t your only corrective option. Toric or RPG contact lenses can transform how you see the world. From near to far, everything can be crisp, clear, and vivid with the right lenses. Connect with our Village Optical team today to book a contact lens exam and fitting. We’re here to help you achieve the sharp, comfortable vision you deserve!
