Many people with astigmatism think they are not able to use contact lenses due to their condition. But there's actually a special kind of contact lens that corrects astigmatism. The cornea of a normally sighted person is round, but in the case of someone with astigmatism, it's more elliptical. This seemingly minor detail actually changes how light hits the retina, and results in blurred vision.
Toric contact lenses can fix this condition. Toric lenses have a design that differs from that of regular lenses. Compared to ordinary lenses, which have one power throughout the lens, toric lenses have two different powers; one for astigmatism, and one for trouble with distance vision. Compared with regular lenses, which can freely move around on your eye and have no effect on your vision, toric lenses need to stay in place. A smart feature of astigmatism-correcting lenses is the fact that they're heavier at the bottom, which helps them stay in place when you blink.
Just like regular lenses, toric lenses are available as soft disposable contact lenses, daily disposable lenses, and frequent replacement lenses. And folks with astigmatism have no shortage of options; toric lenses even come in color, or as multifocals. Hard contact lenses, also called rigid gas permeable lenses, have a firmer shape which helps them stay in place, but they aren't always as comfortable as soft lenses. Rest assured, there's a contact lens which perfectly suits your needs, and together, we'll find it for you.
Due to the fact that toric lenses are a little more complex, you should factor in some extra time for your fitting. This all might seem like a bit of effort, but it's worth the end result; effective, glasses-free treatment. Being fitted with the best product for you will only improve your vision, and consequently, your quality of life.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 911.