10 Tips for Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for Astigmatism

 Eyeglass wearers with astigmatism have a more complex task when it comes to finding the right contact lenses than those without astigmatism. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea has an oval instead of a round shape, causing refractive error. Fortunately, astigmatism is not a rare condition, and there are many types of contact lenses specifically designed for managing the condition. In this article, we provide you with ten tips for choosing the right contact lenses for astigmatism.

Visit an Eye Care Provider

It is crucial that you meet with an eye care professional before you start shopping for contact lenses. Your eye care provider will diagnose the severity of your astigmatism and determine the best prescription required. Moreover, your eye care provider will fit you with toric lenses, which are specially designed for individuals with astigmatism.

Consider Soft Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are ideal for people who are experiencing mild to moderate astigmatism. Astigmatism is a condition in which the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, is not perfectly round. This can cause blurred vision, especially when looking at objects that are far away. Soft contact lenses can help to correct astigmatism by providing a smooth, even surface for light to pass through. They can also be more comfortable to wear than glasses, especially for people who have astigmatism in both eyes. If you are considering soft contact lenses for astigmatism management, be sure to talk to your eye care specialist. They can help you choose the right type of lens for your needs and teach you how to care for them properly.

Consider Hybrid Contact Lenses

Hybrid contact lenses have a rigid center with a plastic skirt aligned with the corneal curvature. This innovative design makes the lenses stable and minimizes any disturbance caused by blinking.

Consider Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral contact lenses are larger in diameter, covering the entire sclera and exempting the cornea's irregularities for enhanced visual acuity.

Understanding Toric Lenses

Toric lenses are specifically designed for individuals with astigmatism since they correct astigmatism's irregular shape to maintain clear vision.

Choosing Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

If you have moderate to severe astigmatism, daily disposable contact lenses may be the best choice for you. These lenses require minimum cleaning care and are one of the healthiest options since you discard them after one use.

Assess Your Comfort Levels

Contact lenses for astigmatism are available in various materials, designs, and experiences. Before selecting a specific type, the lens wearer should assess comfort levels and compare it between different types of contact lenses.

Check for Moisture Retention

When selecting contact lenses for astigmatism, it is essential to check for moisture retention abilities since people with astigmatism tend to experience dry eyes.

Check for UV Protection

When buying contact lenses, it is equally important to check for UV protection capabilities. Your contact lenses should protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can cause premature aging of the eyes, while UVB rays can cause cataracts and other eye diseases. Contact lenses that block 99% or more of UVA and UVB rays are considered to provide adequate protection. It is important to note that not all contact lenses provide UV protection, so it is important to check the label before you buy. You should also talk to your eye doctor about whether UV protection is right for you.

Consult Your Insurance Provider

Last but not least, consult your insurance provider for partial or full coverage for your contact lenses. With a little research, you may get financial aid for your contact lenses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right type of contact lens for astigmatism requires professional advice to determine the right prescription and design. You'd need to consider various factors such as soft or hybrid lenses, moisture retention, and UV protection. Furthermore, understanding your comfort levels is vital since wearing the wrong type of contact lens may cause irritation. By following these practical tips, having astigmatism shouldn't be an obstacle to enjoying perfect vision.