Often when people are diagnosed with an astigmatism, they assume that means they can no longer use contact lenses. However, that isn’t accurate. Toric contact lenses are designed specifically for people with an astigmatism. They are actually more common than you think, and The Eye Wearhouse offers fittings to help you feel comfortable with these lenses.
What Is an Astigmatism?
An astigmatism is when there is an irregular curve in the surface of the eye. Doctors typically refer to the cornea shape as a football compared to a basketball. This curvature affects how light enters the eye. Instead of focusing onto a single point on the retina, light is focused across multiple points, which results in blurry or distorted vision at both near and far distances.
This differs from nearsightedness or farsightedness, which occur when light focuses too far in front of or behind the retina. Astigmatism is a common refractive condition and can occur independently or alongside other vision concerns.
What Makes Toric Lenses Different from Regular Contact Lenses?
Toric lenses are designed with a specific shape to correct the irregular curve caused by astigmatism. Unlike regular soft contact lenses, which have the same curvature throughout, toric lenses have different powers in different areas of the lens. This design allows the lens to correct vision at multiple points rather than just one. Toric lenses also include a weighting or stabilization design that keeps the lens properly aligned on the eye as you blink and move throughout the day. This is the key difference that allows them to correct astigmatism effectively, instead of sitting on the eye without addressing the irregular curve.
Can Toric Lenses Correct Other Vision Problems Besides Astigmatism?
Toric lenses are not limited to correcting astigmatism on its own. They are often built to manage more than one refractive error at the same time, which makes them a practical option for people with a more complex prescription. A single toric lens can be designed to correct:
- Nearsightedness (myopia): a condition where distant objects appear blurry because light focuses in front of the retina.
- Farsightedness (hyperopia): a condition where close objects appear blurry because light focuses behind the retina.
- Age related near vision loss (presbyopia): a natural change in near focus that typically develops after age forty.
A vision test identifies the specific vision conditions you have, ensuring that you can find the right lens for your prescription.
What Should You Expect When Getting Fitted for Toric Lenses?
Getting fitted for toric lenses involves a few extra steps compared to a standard contact lens fitting, since the lens needs to align properly on the eye to correct astigmatism. The process typically begins with a comprehensive vision test to measure the exact curve and power needed for your prescription. Trial lenses are then worn in office so the fit can be evaluated, including how well the lens stabilizes and how consistently it stays in position, since toric lenses need to remain aligned to correct vision properly.
After the initial fitting session, patients typically wear the trial lenses for a short period before returning for a follow up check to confirm comfort and clarity. This process helps ensure the lenses provided are suited to your eyes and prescription, rather than a general fit that may shift or blur throughout the day.
Will Contacts Still Feel Comfortable If You Have Astigmatism?
Comfort is one of the most common concerns people raise before trying toric lenses, and it is a reasonable one given how astigmatism correction has evolved over the years. Earlier lens designs sometimes struggled to maintain a stable position on the eye, which could result in inconsistent vision throughout the day. Advances in lens design have addressed this directly, with modern toric lenses incorporating stabilization features that keep the lens properly oriented during blinking, movement, and everyday activity.
Most people adjust to toric lenses within the first week of wear, with any initial awareness of the lens gradually diminishing as the eyes adapt to the new fit. Discomfort that persists beyond this adjustment period is generally a sign that the fit requires reassessment, rather than an indication that toric lenses are not a suitable option.
Ready to Find Out If Toric Lenses Are Right for You?
Having an astigmatism doesn’t mean that you can’t use contact lenses! Toric lenses are built for exactly this kind of prescription. The Eye Wearhouse offers vision tests and toric lens fittings in Airdrie and Olds, with a team that will walk you through your options and help you find a lens that fits right. Contact us or Book your vision test today.