Astigmatism is a prevalent vision issue where an irregular shape of the cornea or eye lens leads to blurred or distorted vision. If you’ve been diagnosed with this condition, you might be wondering whether you can wear contact lenses to rectify it. The reassuring answer is, absolutely, you can. Here, we delve into the array of eyewear options available for astigmatism correction and how to select the right one for you.
Astigmatism can be corrected in two primary ways – contact lenses and eyeglasses. Eyeglasses offer clarity and comfort, while contact lenses are preferred by many for their convenience and aesthetic appeal. Importantly, there are specialized contact lenses designed to correct astigmatism.
Unlike regular spherical contacts which have a uniform curvature, contact lenses for astigmatism are specifically shaped to match the irregular curvature of the afflicted cornea or lens. They refract light correctly, leading to improved vision. These lenses are weighted at the bottom to ensure they sit firmly in the eye. Proper insertion is vital to address the refractive issue.
There are four primary types of contact lenses designed for astigmatism:
1. Soft Toric Lenses: Providing excellent vision correction, these are the most generally prescribed contacts for astigmatism. They’re crafted from a soft, flexible material and can correct astigmatism across different meridians.
2. Rigid Gas-permeable Contact Lenses: Made from a hard material that allows oxygen to pass through, these lenses offer clear vision and can be particularly beneficial for those with high degrees of astigmatism.
3. Scleral Contact Lenses: These large-diameter lenses sit on the sclera (the white part of the eye) and vault over the cornea, offering a secure fit and optimal vision correction. They can be a prime choice if you have irregular corneas or discomfort with other lenses.
4. Hybrid Contact Lenses: Combining the benefits of soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses, hybrids feature a hard center for superior vision correction and a soft outer ring for added comfort.
Unfortunately, regular spherical contact lenses are not suitable for those with astigmatism as they lack the necessary correction for an uneven cornea or lens shape. For effective vision correction, it is vital to wear lenses specifically designed for astigmatism.
If you’re a fan of colored contacts, you’ll be pleased to note that you can indeed use them even with astigmatism. Toric lenses are available in different colors, allowing you to correct your vision and change your eye color simultaneously.
Whether contact lenses or glasses are better for astigmatism depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Contact lenses offer convenience and a broader field of view, while glasses can be simpler to use and offer design options. It’s best to consult with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to determine the most suitable eyewear for you.
Choosing the best contact lenses for astigmatism requires a thorough eye examination and consultation with an eye care specialist. They’ll assess the severity of your astigmatism and recommend the best type and brand of contact lenses based on their evaluation.
If you’re grappling with astigmatism and looking for the ideal eyewear solution, consider booking an appointment with a skilled eye specialist. They’ll provide comprehensive eye examinations using advanced technology and offer personalized eye care options.
Remember, rectifying vision anomalies like astigmatism is not a process to delay. Make an appointment today!
Aaron Barriga is an expert in online marketing for Insight Vision Center. He possesses a deep understanding of medical procedures and has a keen interest in eye and vision health. Through regular blogging, Aaron shares his knowledge and discoveries about the latest eye care technologies, including LASIK.
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