Blurry or distorted vision can make daily life challenging, especially when glasses do not provide enough clarity or comfort. Many people with astigmatism believe they cannot wear contact lenses, but that is no longer true. With advanced designs and materials, contact lenses for astigmatism can now provide sharp, stable vision and lasting comfort throughout the day.
At Michigan Contact Lens, we specialize in custom fitting lenses that correct astigmatism and help patients enjoy clear, natural vision without relying on glasses.
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common vision condition that occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is not perfectly round. Instead of being shaped like a basketball, it is shaped more like a football. This uneven curve prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
Astigmatism can occur along with nearsightedness or farsightedness and may cause symptoms such as:
- Blurry or shadowed vision
- Eye strain or headaches
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night
- Squinting to improve focus
While glasses can correct the distortion, contact lenses for astigmatism often provide more consistent vision and a wider field of view.
What Are Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Contact lenses for astigmatism are specially designed to correct irregular curvature on the eye’s surface. These lenses are called toric lenses, and they contain multiple focusing powers in different orientations to align with the unique shape of your cornea.
Unlike standard spherical lenses, toric lenses have a stabilizing design that prevents them from rotating on your eye. This ensures that the corrective power remains properly aligned, providing sharp and consistent vision throughout the day.
Types of Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
There are several types of contact lenses that can effectively correct astigmatism. Your eye doctor will recommend the best option based on your prescription, lifestyle, and eye health.
Soft Toric Contact Lenses
These are made from flexible materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. Soft toric lenses are comfortable and easy to adapt to, making them a popular choice for most patients. They come in daily, bi-weekly, or monthly replacement options.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
RGP lenses are made from firm materials that maintain their shape on the eye. Because they do not conform to the cornea’s irregular shape, they provide crisp and clear vision even for higher levels of astigmatism. They require a short adaptation period but often deliver superior optical quality.
Hybrid Contact Lenses
Hybrid lenses combine the clarity of an RGP center with the comfort of a soft lens outer ring. They are ideal for patients who need the precise correction of a rigid lens but prefer the comfort of a soft one.
Scleral Contact Lenses
For patients with high or irregular astigmatism, scleral lenses may be the best option. These large-diameter lenses rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) rather than the cornea, creating a smooth surface that provides exceptional vision clarity and comfort.
Benefits of Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Choosing contact lenses for astigmatism offers several benefits, including:
- Clear and stable vision without distortion
- Wider, more natural field of view compared to glasses
- Greater comfort for active lifestyles
- Customizable fit for unique corneal shapes
- Available in daily or extended wear options
Modern toric and specialty lenses are made from breathable, moisture-rich materials that keep your eyes healthy and hydrated throughout the day.
How Contact Lenses for Astigmatism Are Fitted
Fitting contact lenses for astigmatism requires more precision than standard lenses. During your appointment at Michigan Contact Lens, your doctor will:
- Measure the shape and curvature of your cornea using advanced imaging technology.
- Evaluate the degree and axis of your astigmatism.
- Select lenses that provide the right balance of vision correction, stability, and comfort.
- Allow you to test the lenses for clarity and fit before finalizing your prescription.
Because every eye is different, customized fitting ensures that your lenses stay centered and provide consistent vision throughout wear.
Caring for Your Astigmatism Contact Lenses
Proper lens care helps maintain comfort and clear vision. Follow these steps for healthy wear:
- Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses
- Use only approved solutions to clean and store lenses
- Replace lenses according to your prescribed schedule
- Avoid sleeping in lenses unless approved by your doctor
- Attend regular eye exams to monitor eye health and fit
Your eye doctor may recommend preservative-free solutions or specific brands to suit your eyes’ sensitivity and dryness levels.
Michigan Contact Lens Specializes in Astigmatism Correction
At Michigan Contact Lens, we offer a wide range of contact lenses for astigmatism, including soft toric, hybrid, and scleral designs. Our specialists have extensive experience fitting complex prescriptions and providing personalized solutions that deliver comfort and clarity.
We use advanced diagnostic imaging and corneal topography to design lenses that match your unique eye shape. Whether you are new to contacts or need an upgrade for better vision stability, our team will help you find the right fit for your lifestyle and visual needs.
Schedule your consultation today and experience how custom contact lenses for astigmatism can improve your vision and comfort every day.
Conclusion
Astigmatism does not have to limit your vision or your comfort. With the right lenses and expert fitting, you can enjoy clear, stable sight without relying on glasses.If you struggle with blurry or fluctuating vision, Book an appointment with Michigan Contact Lens for a comprehensive evaluation. Our team will recommend the best contact lenses for astigmatism to meet your individual needs and provide lasting visual comfort.