How Do Astigmatism Contacts Work?
Astigmatism is a vision problem that results from an irregularly shaped cornea. Normal corneas are usually round; however, people with astigmatism have an oval or oblong cornea, which can skew light rays coming into your eye and cause them to focus on two or more points on your retina instead of one. This can make vision problems somewhat difficult to correct with traditional contact lenses. However, because astigmatism is the most common vision problem, there are astigmatism contacts available to correct it. If you have astigmatism and need corrective eyewear, it can help to know how astigmatism contacts can help you.
How Astigmatism Contacts Correct Your Vision
Astigmatism contacts work by reshaping your cornea. Also known as toric lenses, these contacts are customized for you to correct the specific degree of curvature in your eye in addition to correcting coexisting nearsightedness or farsightedness. While these lenses are available in both soft and rigid forms, keep in mind that astigmatism lenses must be firm enough to reshape your cornea. With traditional soft lenses, your cornea shapes the lens; however, the lens must reshape your cornea in astigmatism cases. Because toric lenses are designed to correct a specific corneal irregularity, they must sit on your cornea in a certain way to work properly. While regular lenses rotate and slide when you blink, toric lenses are heavier at the bottom to help keep them in the correct position. While there are different types of toric contacts you can choose from, such as rigid gas permeable, disposable, or daily wear, the type of astigmatism you have ultimately determines which type of lenses you need. This is so because some types of astigmatism are more difficult to correct and require non-disposable lenses.
Where to Find Astigmatism Contacts
While astigmatism contacts are available from several major contact manufacturers, you must obtain a prescription for these lenses, especially because professionals must design the lenses specifically for your eyes. If you have a family history of astigmatism and think you may be a good candidate for these custom lenses, you should visit an eye care professional for a proper eye exam, diagnosis, and treatment plan. If your eye doctor determines you can benefit from astigmatism lenses, he or she can prescribe them for you.
Astigmatism contacts are one of the best options when it comes to correcting vision in people with astigmatism. While there are other treatment options available, these specially designed lenses are perfect if you want to avoid the hassle of glasses or more invasive procedures. If you think you may be a good candidate for these contacts, you should visit an eye doctor immediately for an exam.