If you have astigmatism, you may have been told at some point that contact lenses “won’t work” for you. That advice is out of date. Today’s soft toric lenses and rigid gas permeable lenses correct astigmatism comfortably for a large number of people, and many patients from Tradition, St. Lucie West, Torino, Sandpiper Bay and Tesoro wear them every day. Here is what astigmatism is, which contact lens options can correct it, and what to expect from a contact lens fitting at St. Lucie Family Eye Care.
What Is Astigmatism?
In an eye without astigmatism, the cornea (the clear front window of the eye) is curved evenly in every direction, a bit like a basketball. With astigmatism, the cornea or the lens inside the eye is curved more steeply in one direction than the other, closer to the shape of a football. Because of that uneven curve, light does not come to a single sharp focus on the retina.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, astigmatism is very common, often present from birth, and frequently occurs alongside nearsightedness or farsightedness. Common signs include:
- Blurry or slightly distorted vision at both distance and near
- Squinting to see clearly
- Eye strain or headaches, especially after reading or computer work
- Glare, halos or streaks around lights, which can make night driving harder
A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to know whether you have astigmatism and how much. Even a small amount that goes uncorrected can make your eyes work harder than they need to.
Why Regular Contact Lenses Aren’t Always Enough
Standard spherical soft lenses have the same power across the entire lens. They correct nearsightedness or farsightedness well, but they cannot correct the extra, direction-specific power that astigmatism needs. People with mild astigmatism sometimes see acceptably in spherical lenses, while others notice vision that is “almost clear” but never quite crisp. That is usually the point where a lens designed for astigmatism makes a real difference.
Contact Lens Options for Astigmatism
Soft Toric Contact Lenses
Toric lenses have different powers in different directions across the lens, matched to the shape of your eye. To work, the lens has to stay in the right position, so toric designs include stabilizing features that help keep the lens from rotating each time you blink. Soft torics are available in daily disposable, two-week and monthly replacement schedules, so most people can find a lens that fits their routine and budget. Many patients notice they look and feel almost the same as ordinary soft contacts.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
Gas permeable lenses are firmer than soft lenses and hold their own shape. Because they keep a smooth, even surface over the cornea, they can give especially sharp vision for people with higher amounts of astigmatism. They usually take a short adjustment period, but many wearers find the clarity worth it.
Specialty and Hybrid Designs
For irregular corneas or higher prescriptions, there are also hybrid lenses (a rigid center with a soft outer skirt) and larger scleral lenses that vault over the cornea. These are fit case by case after a detailed evaluation, and your doctor will tell you whether one of them makes sense for your eyes.
Multifocal Toric Lenses
If you are over 40 and also need help with up-close reading, multifocal toric lenses combine astigmatism correction with near and distance vision in a single lens. They are not right for everyone, but they can be a good alternative to wearing reading glasses over your contacts.
What to Expect at Your Contact Lens Fitting
A contact lens prescription is different from a glasses prescription. Toric lenses must match not only your power but also the curvature of your eye and the angle of your astigmatism. At St. Lucie Family Eye Care, a contact lens evaluation typically includes:
- A review of your current vision, lifestyle, screen time and any past contact lens experience
- Measurements of the front surface of your eye to determine lens size and fit
- A check of your tear film and eye health so your lenses stay comfortable
- Trial lenses, so the doctor can see how the lens sits and whether it stays aligned
- Instructions on safe insertion, removal, cleaning and replacement
- A follow-up visit to confirm your vision and comfort before finalizing the prescription
Toric lenses sometimes need a small adjustment after the first trial, which is completely normal. Fine-tuning the fit is what turns “pretty good” vision into clear, stable vision.
Tips for Comfortable Toric Lens Wear
- Follow your replacement schedule. Wearing lenses longer than recommended can affect comfort and raise the risk of infection. Our post on contact lens overwear explains why.
- Give a new lens a moment to settle. If vision is a little blurry right after insertion, blink a few times; a toric lens often settles into position quickly.
- Keep water away from your lenses. Never rinse or store contacts in tap water, and remove them before swimming or showering.
- Keep a backup pair of glasses. Glasses give your eyes a break and are useful if you ever have irritation or redness.
- Remove lenses if something feels wrong. Pain, significant redness, light sensitivity or sudden blurry vision are reasons to take lenses out and call your eye doctor promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear contacts if I have astigmatism?
In most cases, yes. Soft toric and gas permeable lenses are designed to correct astigmatism, and your eye doctor can help you choose the right type during a fitting.
Are toric contacts uncomfortable?
Modern soft torics are made from the same types of materials as other soft lenses, and many wearers find them just as comfortable. Gas permeable lenses take a little longer to get used to.
Why does my vision sometimes blur with toric lenses?
If a toric lens rotates out of position, vision can briefly blur. Frequent or lasting blur usually means the fit or design should be adjusted, so let your doctor know.
Can I use my glasses prescription to order contacts?
No. Contacts need a separate prescription that includes lens brand, size and curvature, which is determined during a contact lens fitting.
Do toric lenses come in daily disposables?
Yes. Many toric lenses are available as daily disposables, as well as two-week and monthly options.
Schedule a Contact Lens Fitting in Port St. Lucie
Astigmatism doesn’t have to keep you in glasses. Our doctors can measure your eyes, check your eye health and find a lens that gives you clear, comfortable vision. Learn more about our contact lens services and comprehensive eye exams, then book your visit at St. Lucie Family Eye Care, 702 SW Port St Lucie Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953.
Call (772) 873-0037 or request an appointment online.