Did you know that there are contact lenses especially made to fix your astigmatism? Firstly, what's astigmatism, anyway? An eye with astigmatism has a differently shaped cornea, and that alters how light enters the eye. It's not able to hit the retina properly, which dramatically affects one's ability to see clearly.
The lenses eye doctors use to correct astigmatism are known as toric contact lenses. Toric lenses have a design that is different from that of regular lenses. Regular lenses have one power, but toric lenses have two: one for myopia or hyperopia and one for astigmatism. They feature curvatures at various angles. Due to their multiple powers, toric lenses must remain in place on your eye. This is not the case with regular lenses, which can shift slightly and not affect your sight. Toric lenses are therefore heavier on the bottom, to prevent them from moving around on your eye.
There are several scheduling options for toric contact lens wearers, including soft disposable contact lenses, daily disposable lenses, and frequent replacement lenses. And those with astigmatism have no shortage of options; toric lenses also come in color, or as multifocals. Rigid gas permeable lenses (RGP, or hard contact lenses) are made from a tougher material that keeps their shape even when you rub your eyes or blink, and might give better vision than other lenses. However, they are usually less comfortable. Rest assured, there's a contact lens which is just right for you.
Toric contact lens fittings may sometimes take up more time than regular contact lens fittings, due to the fact that these lenses are slightly more complex. It might seem like a bit of effort, but it's worth the end result; getting treated, glasses-free. Getting the right product will only improve your vision, and consequently, your quality of life.
