Astigmatism is a common refractive error. People who have astigmatism experience blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Astigmatism occurs when light entering the eye comes into focus at multiple points, either in front of or behind the retina, instead of precisely on the retina. This can be caused by a cornea that is irregularly shaped, and differs from the rounded shape of a normal cornea. Sometimes it can be caused by an irregularly shaped lens inside the eye. People with mild astigmatism can experience slightly blurred or distorted vision at all distances, but people with severe astigmatism can have vision affected so much, that it prevents them from performing their daily activities.
Astigmatism can be diagnosed easily by your eye care professional. Treatments for astigmatism are designed to change the way that light rays are bent when they enter the eye so that they come into a point of focus precisely on the retina. These treatments may include prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses that compensate for the eye’s inability to focus. Another treatment option is refractive surgery, where the cornea is reshaped to change the way it bends entering light rays. Astigmatism can also be treated by implanting a prescription lens inside the eye where it works with the rest of the eye’s natural focusing system to refocus light rays precisely on the retina. When astigmatism causes objects to appear blurred or distorted, any of these treatments can restore clear vision, making daily activities much easier.
Do you have astigmatism and want to trade in your bulky glasses for contact lenses? There’s a perfect lens for you: Toric Lenses. Toric lenses are specifically designed for patients with astigmatism. How do toric lenses work? People with astigmatism have myopia or hyperopia in different parts of the eye. To treat the specific needs of these sections, toric lenses are designed with different strengths for each meridian. Toric lenses also rotate to properly adjust for your conditions, allowing for the best possible vision. For your comfort, Toric lenses come in both soft and in rigid, gas permeable versions. Your eye care professional will know which type of contact lens is right for you. If you have astigmatism, ask your eye care professional about Toric contact lenses.
