Astigmatism is characterized by the irregular, oval-like curvature of your cornea. This causes blurred vision at all distances. Living with astigmatism is usually not an issue, as corrective lenses and surgery are effective in addressing the condition.
One thing you may have heard about astigmatism is that you cannot wear contact lenses to correct it. This may have been true a long time ago. Today, contact lenses crafted specifically for correcting astigmatism are widely available.
If you are considering contact lenses to compensate for your astigmatism, speak with an eye doctor at Blink Eyewear at any of our Calgary locations in Creekside, West Springs, or Crowfoot. Our optometrists provide comprehensive eye exams and can walk you through the next steps for your special contact lenses.
What You Should Know About Contact Lenses For Astigmatism
The word of mouth is that you cannot wear contact lenses if you have astigmatism. This used to be true, as earlier contact lenses were shaped in a way that did not fit the curvature of a cornea affected by astigmatism. As a result, visual corrections for someone with astigmatism were limited to prescription glasses and surgery.
This is no longer true today. Contact lenses that specifically fit eyes with astigmatism are a readily available option.
If you are interested in contact lenses, but have an astigmatism, talk to your eye doctor and make sure this is the right solution for you. Ask your optometrist the following questions:
What kind of contact lenses should I wear for astigmatism?
The severity of your astigmatism will determine which type of contact lenses are most suitable for you.
If your astigmatism is minor, you should opt for rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. Unlike traditional contact lenses, RGP lenses allow oxygen to pass through. Permeability is a desirable feature in lenses as increased oxygen flow is good for your cornea’s health and reduces your reliance on eye drops. Thanks to their permeability, RGP lenses can also be made larger than other lenses. Their larger size allows for a snug fit on eyes with astigmatism.
The stronger the curvature of your cornea, the more severe your astigmatism is. For extreme astigmatism, you may require toric lenses. Rather than a perfectly spherical surface like standard contact lenses, toric lenses have an oblong shape made to accommodate the shape of the astigmatic eye. Toric lenses can be made of either soft or rigid gas permeable (RGP or GP) lens material, though the soft toric lenses are more common.
Finally, pay special attention to the lifecycle of your contact lenses. RGP lenses can last for up to 2 years if they are properly washed and rinsed on a daily basis. Toric lenses can also be suitable for long-term wearing, but daily disposables are available as well.
Is there discomfort in wearing contact lenses for astigmatism?
Wearing contact lenses for astigmatism should be no more uncomfortable than wearing standard corrective lenses. You may have to go through an adjustment period, but wearing your contact lenses should become second nature by a week or two.
Note that contact lenses for astigmatism come in both soft and hard forms. Soft lenses are more comfortable to wear and require very little time to get used to. Hard lenses, on the other hand, can last longer with proper care and generally offer crispier vision. Double check with your eye doctor before committing between soft or hard lenses.
How will my contact lenses fit?
For people with astigmatism, the question of fit is even more important. Because of the special curvature of their cornea, most contact lenses are prone to falling off when worn.
RGP lenses will fit eyes with mild astigmatism, and toric lenses are reserved for more severe cases. The latter have unique properties that help them cling to even the most curved corneas.
You may have to try out multiple contact lenses before finding a pair that fits your eyes perfectly.
Your Trusted Calgary Optometrist
You do not have to wear prescription glasses or pay exorbitant costs for surgery to fix your astigmatism. Contact lenses designed specifically for astigmatism are becoming increasingly popular in Canada. And your eye doctor can help you determine which lenses are best suited for you..
To learn more about how these special contact lenses can help with your astigmatism, start by booking an eye exam at Blink Eyewear by calling 403-516-2292 or by filling out the online contact form.
FAQs
Q: What causes astigmatism?
A: Astigmatism may be present from birth or may develop as a result of an eye injury, disease, or surgery.
Q: How much are eye exams at Blink Eyewear?
A: Our eye exams for adults aged 19 to 64 start at $129. Children's eye exams and seniors eye exams are covered by Alberta Health Care.
Q: Do you give eye exams for children and seniors?
A: Not only are children and seniors eye exams offered at Blink Eyewear, they are also covered by Alberta Health Care!