What to Know About Wearing Contacts with Astigmatism

Astigmatism occurs when the shape of the cornea or lens of the eye is curved or misshapen. As a result, light does not enter the eye correctly. It is a common condition, in fact many people are born with astigmatism. It can even be considered hereditary.  And while it sounds potentially worrisome, it is not even considered a disease. 

Astigmatism is a common eye problem that makes vision feel blurry or distorted.  Fortunately, it is possible to wear special toric prescription contact lenses designed for people with astigmatism. It is important to get a proper fitting from an eye care professional to ensure the contact lenses are comfortable and provide improved vision. As is the practice with any type of vision issues, contact lenses have to fit properly regardless if you happen to have astigmatism or not. 

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism affects the front part of the eye (the cornea), which is the lens that bends so that light can pass through the eye. The shape of the cornea is supposed to be rounded like a perfectly shaped ball. But when astigmatism occurs, the eye shape is uneven and curved. Near and far vision can also be affected when someone has astigmatism.

There are two types of astigmatism: regular, also called corneal, and then irregular. The type of astigmatism is based on the structure that is misshapen.

Regular astigmatism or corneal - the principal meridians (steepest or flattest curves) are perpendicular to one another.

Irregular astigmatism - the principal meridians are not perpendicular or the surface of the cornea appears bumpy.                                     

Can I Wear Contact Lenses with Astigmatism?

Most astigmatism falls into the mild category, so yes, contacts for astigmatism is an option. But the contact lenses must be a special type: toric contact lenses. Toric contact lenses are a type of contact lens designed to correct astigmatism, which is an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens of the eye that causes blurred or distorted vision. Toric lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to help the light focus properly on the retina, providing clearer vision. 

It is important to wear these specific lenses for astigmatism, because traditional contacts will not help correct vision. In fact, wearing regular contacts with astigmatism can further damage the eyes. This is why it’s critical to see an eye doctor or vision specialist who can properly diagnose astigmatism and prescribe the correct contact lenses. 

 

Contacts for Astigmatism

Toric Soft Contact Lens

Toric contact lenses are specifically made to address the condition of astigmatism. They have different powers in different meridians of the lens to help compensate for the irregular shape of the cornea and provide clearer vision. The effectiveness of toric lenses are usually higher than that of traditional contacts, because of the way they are made to statically lay on cornea, providing a better field of vision. Toric lenses are soft which increase ease of wear. Check out the best soft contacts made by Acuvue Oasys for astigmatism from our partners at ContactsCart. 

Also the best contacts for astigmatism can offer the flexibility of daily contact lenses use such as the DAILIES AquaComfort Plus Toric 90pk. 

The consistency and dependability of a monthly toric contact lens order ensures your best contact lenses are at the ready to keep vision sharp.

Bausch + Lomb Ultra monthly disposable soft contact lenses are another contact lens option for those with  astigmatism.

 

Toric Hard Lens/Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

Toric contact lenses are a firmer or hard type of material that provides greater stability while inside of the eye. Toric lenses are more durable and do not bend or fold. These contacts are also called Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses. Hard lenses usually provide a clearer sight. However, keep in mind that these lenses require more cleaning and disinfection. Toric lenses are the best for long term because of their rigidity, they will last a lot longer, saving money over time. 

Toric Hybrid Contact Lenses

Toric hybrid lenses provide just what their name suggests – they are a blend of both soft and hard contacts. These lenses are more flexible in the center with a rigid ring on the outside of the contact. This provides the best of both options providing comfort of a soft lens and stronger vision correction that rigid gas permeable contacts are known for.

Caring for Toric Contact Lenses

Toric contact lens care is an important part of maintaining the health and longevity of contact lenses. To ensure cleaning of lenses is done correctly, use a contact lens cleaner specifically designed for the type of contact lenses you have. 

Place the toric contact lens in the palm of the hand. Start by gently rubbing the lens with a few drops of the cleaning solution between the finger and the lens. Then, rinse the lens with a contact lens solution. Finally, let the contact lenses air dry in a clean container or contact lens case, and replace the solution in the container as needed. Make sure the lens is fully submerged. Tighten the cap on the case and store until ready to use again. Over time, it will become routine and habit in wearing, removing, and storing contact lenses. Be sure to stay consistent in these practices to keep contacts wearable and comfortable for use.

Here are some additional contact lens best practices: 

• If you wear makeup be sure to put toric contacts in first in order to prevent makeup transferring to the contact.

• At the end of the day, remove toric contacts first before removing make up.

• Remove contact lenses before swimming or getting into a pool.

• Do not shower with contact lenses in, regardless of type of contact lens.

• It is also best practice to not sleep with contacts in. This can cause irritation, dryness, redness, and blurry vision. This can also eventually cause infections. Sleeping with contacts also deprives the eyes of much needed oxygen. 

• Keep contacts in the contact case when not in use. Be sure to periodically clean your contact lens case as well, to remove any protein deposits or potential bacteria. 

• Change the contact lens case occasionally; every 3 months is recommended. 

• Ensure that the nozzle of the contact lens solution does not get any debris or anything on it.

• Use fresh contact lens solution each time and store the contacts in the storage case. Dispose of old solution before storing the contact lenses.

• If you feel any eye irritation while wearing toric contacts, remove them and rinse them with the eye solution. Do not rub the eyes as that might cause infection if there happens to be any debris on the lens.

• If you have dry eyes, do not use over the counter eye drops as a quick fix. Use only doctor prescribed eye washes made for contacts. 

• Do not share your contact lenses with anyone.

• Get your eyes checked regularly to ensure you always have the correct prescription for toric lenses.

Get the Best Prescription Contact Lenses for Astigmatism with Hubble

Staying aware of how to best manage astigmatism is important for long-term eye health and vision. If you’re looking for toric contact lenses, Hubble Contact’s sister site ContactsCart is the best place to shop hundreds of low-cost and high-quality contact lenses online options. 

If you’re looking for non-astigmatism contact lenses online options, start a daily contact lenses subscription today for only $1 and find out why contact lens wearers love Hubble. Hubble lenses are made from methafilcon A, a hydrogel material. With 55% water content, UV protection, and a thin edge, they're designed for easy insertion, all-day comfort and crystal clear vision.