For many patients, contact lenses offer a convenient and comfortable alternative to glasses. However, not all vision conditions respond to the same type of correction. While glasses are commonly prescribed for refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, contact lenses can also be a reliable option, even for more complex prescriptions.
That said, standard soft contact lenses typically aren’t designed to correct most cases of astigmatism. However, your optometrist may still be able to recommend toric or scleral lenses to provide you with clear, stable vision.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error that affects how the eye focuses light. In a typical eye, the front surface is round and even. For people with astigmatism, the eye has a different shape. This irregular shape of the eye causes light to focus unevenly, which can lead to blurred or distorted vision that may vary depending on lighting conditions or visual tasks.
Roughly 1 in 3 people have astigmatism. Some are born with it, while others develop it over time. Eye injuries, surgeries, or certain conditions may change the shape of the eye, contributing to the condition. Though its exact cause isn’t always clear, astigmatism is a common finding in routine eye exams.
How Astigmatism Affects Vision
Unlike nearsightedness or farsightedness, which primarily affect either near or distance vision, astigmatism can impact both. It all depends on how light is bent as it enters the eye and where it lands on the retina.
Common symptoms include blurry or distorted vision, eyestrain, headaches, difficulty seeing clearly in low light, and frequent squinting. These symptoms can affect tasks like reading, night driving, or working on screens. If any of these sound familiar, a comprehensive eye exam can help determine whether astigmatism or another vision concern is involved.
Options for Astigmatism Correction
Most people with astigmatism manage it with prescription glasses or contact lenses, both of which help light focus properly on the retina. In some cases, refractive surgery such as LASIK may also be considered, especially when astigmatism occurs alongside other vision concerns like myopia or hyperopia.
Not all cases require immediate correction. If your astigmatism is mild and not causing discomfort, your optometrist may recommend simply monitoring it. Your doctor will consider your eye health, vision needs, and lifestyle when helping you choose the most appropriate option.
Contact Lenses That Can Help
Astigmatism often requires specially designed contact lenses. Standard soft lenses tend to move too much on the eye and may not provide consistent vision. Fortunately, several lens types are designed to work with the unique shape of astigmatic eyes.
Toric Soft Lenses
Toric lenses are shaped to correct astigmatism and must stay properly aligned to work effectively. These lenses are soft and often comfortable but may require fine-tuning during the fitting process, especially in more complex prescriptions. Your optometrist will evaluate how the lens settles and rotates to help stable your vision.
Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) Lenses
RGP lenses are made from a firmer material and can offer sharper vision than soft lenses. While they may take longer to get used to, many patients find them worthwhile for the clarity and stability that they provide. RGP lenses hold their shape on the eye, which can improve vision for certain astigmatic prescriptions.
Hybrid Lenses
Hybrid lenses combine an RGP center with a soft outer edge, offering clear vision with added comfort. They’re a good option for patients who want the crisp optics of a rigid lens without the full adjustment period. These lenses blend performance and comfort for many wearers.
Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are larger RGP lenses that rest on the white part of the eye, vaulting over the cornea. They create a fluid-filled layer between the lens and eye, which helps provide a smooth optical surface.
These lenses are especially helpful for patients with irregular corneas or dry eye, and they can be a great option when other lenses haven’t worked as well. Their stability makes them a reliable solution for correcting moderate to severe astigmatism.
Long-Term Management and Monitoring
If you wear contacts for astigmatism, regular follow-ups are key. Toric or scleral lenses may need occasional adjustments over time.
Your optometrist will check for changes in prescription, corneal shape, or comfort, and monitor for signs of dryness or lens-related stress. Astigmatism can remain stable or shift gradually, so consistent care helps support both clear vision and long-term eye health.
Clear Vision Looks Different for Everyone
Clear vision looks different for everyone. For some, astigmatism may be the only issue. For others, it may be one of several refractive concerns affecting how well they see. Because every set of eyes is unique, the right approach is one that’s tailored to your needs.
If you’ve noticed changes in your vision or are simply due for a check-in, our team at Visual Edge Optometric Group is here to help. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam, and we’ll work with you to create a care plan that supports your vision, comfort, and lifestyle at every stage.
