Can You Wear Contacts if You Have Astigmatism?
Yes, absolutely! Many people with astigmatism successfully wear contact lenses. In fact, contact lenses can often provide sharper, clearer vision for astigmatism than eyeglasses. However, it's crucial to understand the different types of contact lenses available and find the right ones for your specific needs. Ignoring astigmatism and trying to correct it with standard spherical contact lenses will result in blurry vision.
What is Astigmatism?
Before diving into contact lens options, let's quickly define astigmatism. Astigmatism is a common refractive error where the cornea (the front surface of your eye) is irregularly shaped. Instead of being perfectly round like a sphere, it's more oval-shaped. This irregular shape causes light to bend unevenly as it enters your eye, resulting in blurry or distorted vision at all distances.
What Types of Contact Lenses Correct Astigmatism?
Standard spherical contact lenses, designed to correct nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia), won't work for astigmatism. You need specialized lenses that account for the irregular curvature of your cornea. Here are the main types:
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Toric Contact Lenses: These are the most common type of contact lens for astigmatism. They have a different curvature in different meridians (directions) to compensate for the irregular shape of the cornea. Toric lenses are available in both soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) materials.
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Multifocal Toric Contact Lenses: If you also have presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on near objects), multifocal toric lenses combine astigmatism correction with the ability to see clearly at different distances.
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Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: While soft toric lenses are more popular due to their comfort, RGP lenses offer superior clarity and are often preferred by individuals with high astigmatism or irregular corneas. They're generally more durable and provide better oxygen flow to the cornea.
How Do I Get Contact Lenses for Astigmatism?
Getting fitted for toric contact lenses requires a comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. They will assess the degree and axis of your astigmatism and determine the best type and parameters of contact lenses for your individual needs. This isn't something you can determine yourself – professional guidance is essential.
Are Toric Contact Lenses More Difficult to Wear?
Many people adapt to toric lenses easily. However, they may feel slightly different than spherical lenses, particularly initially. Proper fitting and instruction from your eye care professional are key to a comfortable and successful experience.
What Are the Advantages of Contact Lenses for Astigmatism?
- Sharper Vision: Contact lenses often provide clearer vision than eyeglasses, especially for those with higher degrees of astigmatism.
- Wider Field of Vision: They typically offer a wider field of view than glasses, particularly with peripheral vision.
- Cosmetic Appeal: Some individuals prefer the cosmetic benefits of contact lenses as they don't obstruct their vision as glasses do.
- Improved Sports Performance: For athletes and active individuals, contacts provide a more stable and secure vision correction without the risk of glasses slipping or fogging up.
What Are the Potential Disadvantages?
- Cost: Toric contact lenses are generally more expensive than standard spherical lenses.
- Adjustment Period: There might be an adjustment period while getting used to wearing them.
- Risk of Infection: As with all contact lenses, proper hygiene practices are essential to prevent infections.
In summary, wearing contact lenses with astigmatism is entirely possible and often preferable to glasses for many individuals. However, it's crucial to consult with an eye care professional for a proper fitting and guidance on lens care to ensure you have a safe and comfortable experience.
