What Contacts Are Best for Astigmatism? 

If you have astigmatism, it can be difficult to find contact lenses that fit well and allow you to see clearly. Fortunately, advances in optical technology have created specialized contacts that can solve these problems. Toric lenses are specifically designed to address the issues that cause astigmatism and also permanently correct this condition. Read on as a Arvada, CO optometrist talks about astigmatism, toric lenses, and how toric lenses work to correct astigmatism.

What Is Astigmatism? 

Astigmatism is a common eye problem that occurs in more than 80 percent of adults. This condition is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea that changes the way light reaches the retina. People affected by astigmatism tend to have blurry vision and sometimes double vision. 

In normal eyes, the cornea has a smooth, round, spherical shape. This allows the cornea to focus light on the retina and produce clear vision. With astigmatism, the irregular shape of the cornea distorts incoming light and creates two focal points on the retina. These conditions explain why people affected by this condition see blurry or double vision. 

What Are Toric Contact Lenses? 

In people with astigmatism, the irregular shape of the cornea makes it difficult for regular contact lenses to fit comfortably. Toric lenses are specifically designed to treat corneal abnormalities. They actually refocus light rays as they pass through the lens, allowing the cornea to focus the light correctly on the retina. 

Toric lenses have a rather elongated shape (compared to regular contacts) and are individually fitted to each patient’s eyes. The difference in shape compensates for the imperfect curvature caused by astigmatism. You can permanently correct astigmatism and improve your distance vision at the same time. Also, these lenses work particularly well for people over 50 who suffer from astigmatism.

Toric Lens Options 

Toric lenses are available in a variety of different options:

• Long term wear
• Daily lenses
• Colored lenses
• Soft contact
• Hard or rigid gas permeable lenses 

Soft lenses are the most common because they are easier to use and more comfortable. However, soft toric lenses can be more difficult to fit onto the cornea, so they can take longer to manufacture. On the other hand, hard lenses are easier to apply but can also be drier, requiring a longer initial setting adjustment time. In any case, toric lenses work much better than regular contact lenses for people with astigmatism. 

If you have additional questions or would like to schedule a consultation, don’t hesitate to call our Arvada, CO optometrist office today!