Astigmatism is a common eye condition that can cause blurred vision, headaches, and eye strain. It occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape. This irregular shape can cause light to be refracted unevenly, leading to distorted or blurred vision. Fortunately, contact lenses can be an effective solution for those with astigmatism. In this article, we will explore what astigmatism is and how contact lenses can help to correct it.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error that affects how the eye focuses light. Normally, the cornea and lens are round and symmetrical, allowing light to be focused on the retina at the back of the eye. However, in astigmatism, the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing light to be focused unevenly. This leads to blurred or distorted vision at any distance, and can also cause headaches and eye strain.
Astigmatism can be either inherited or caused by injury or disease. It often occurs in combination with other refractive errors such as near-sightedness or far-sightedness. It can also develop later in life, especially during periods of hormonal change such as pregnancy or menopause.
How Contact Lenses Can Help
Contact lenses can effectively correct astigmatism by compensating for the irregular shape of the cornea or lens. Toric contact lenses are designed specifically for astigmatism and have different powers in different meridians of the lens to correct the uneven refraction of light. They are available in both soft and rigid gas-permeable materials and can be prescribed for both mild and severe astigmatism.
One of the benefits of contact lenses for astigmatism is that they provide clear vision without the need for glasses. They also offer a wider field of view than glasses, allowing for better peripheral vision. Contact lenses are also a good option for those who play sports or engage in other physical activities as they do not get in the way like glasses can.
Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
When it comes to choosing contact lenses for astigmatism, there are a few options available. Soft toric lenses are the most commonly prescribed, as they are comfortable to wear and easy to adapt to. They are also available in daily, two weekly, and monthly disposable wearing modalities, making them convenient for those with busy lifestyles.
Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses are another option for astigmatism. They are more durable and provide sharper vision than soft lenses, but can take longer to adapt to and may be less comfortable for some wearers. RGP lenses are also available in toric options for astigmatism correction.
Hybrid contact lenses are a newer option for astigmatism correction. They combine the comfort of soft lenses with the sharp vision of RGP lenses by having a soft outer layer and a rigid center. Hybrid lenses are also available in toric designs for astigmatism correction.
Feel Good Contacts offers a wide selection of toric contact lenses for astigmatism correction at affordable prices. Its range includes popular brands such as Acuvue, Biofinity, and Dailies, and the online store makes it easy to find the right lenses for your needs.
Fortunately for those who suffer from astigmatism, contact lenses can be an effective solution. Toric contact lenses that are designed specifically to correct the uneven refraction of light caused by astigmatism are available in a range of materials and wearing modalities. If you are experiencing blurred vision, headaches, or eye strain, contact lenses may be an option worth considering.
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