You’ve probably heard the myth that having astigmatism means you’re stuck with glasses forever. It’s a common concern we hear from people looking for comprehensive eye care in Jamestown ND. However, we’re happy to share that this idea is outdated for most people.
With today’s contact lens technology, you absolutely can wear contacts, even if you have astigmatism. Modern lenses are designed to account for the shape of your eye, offering clear and comfortable vision. That’s why our contact lens exams and fittings can open up a new world of freedom from frames.
What Is Astigmatism & How Does It Affect Vision?
Imagine that a normal eye is shaped like a perfectly round basketball. An eye with astigmatism, however, is shaped more like a football. The irregular curve on the cornea or lens of an astigmatic eye causes light to focus on multiple points inside the eye, thereby causing blurriness and distortion
Astigmatism is a common condition that affects many people. Understanding how it works is the first step toward finding the right correction.
Common Symptoms You Might Notice
. Some common signs of astigmatism include:
- Blurry or distorted vision at all distances
- Eyestrain or discomfort, especially after reading
- Frequent headaches
- Squint to see clearly
- Trouble with vision at night
Special Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Because astigmatism involves an irregular eye surface, a standard, spherical contact lens often can’t provide crisp vision. In fact, for people with astigmatism, regular lenses often rotate when they blink. Rotated or misaligned lenses no longer correct vision properly.
On the other hand, lenses made for astigmatism have features that help them stay put and keep your vision sharp.
Toric Contact Lenses: A Smart Design
Toric lenses are a common choice for correcting astigmatism. These soft lenses have 2 different powers in them, with curvatures at different angles to address the football-like shape of the eye.
Toric lenses are often weighted at the bottom and have thicker and thinner zones. This allows the lens to orient itself correctly on your eye and prevents it from rotating. This stability is key to providing you with consistently clear sight.
Other Contact Lens Options
For some people, other types of lenses might be a better fit. Gas permeable—or rigid—lenses are firm and hold their shape on the eye, which can offer excellent vision correction. Hybrid lenses combine a rigid center with a soft outer skirt for the benefits of both.
As an experienced eye doctor in North Dakota, we can walk you through the pros and cons of each type of lens. We can help you find the solution that best suits your prescription, eye health, and lifestyle. Your comfort and vision are always our priority.
The Contact Lens Fitting Process with Your Optometrist
Finding the right contacts for astigmatism isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Rather, a precise and detailed contact lens fitting is the key to clear, comfortable vision.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
During a contact lens fitting, we take detailed measurements of your cornea, including its shape and curvature. This helps us determine the lens size and design that will fit the shape of your eye. We use this information to select the right diagnostic lens for you to try.
You’ll then wear a trial lens so your doctor can check the fit, your comfort level, and how well you can see. We assess how the lens moves and settles on your eye. This step helps us fine-tune the prescription for optimal performance.
Can Astigmatism Be Too High for Contacts?
Technology has come a very long way in recent years. Today, contact lenses can correct many cases of astigmatism—much more than was possible in the past. Even if you were told years ago that you weren’t a candidate for contacts, this may no longer be true.
While extremely high or complex cases might raise complications, most people are great candidates for toric or other contacts. We can explore the possibilities together.
Tips for Comfort & Clear Vision with Toric Lenses
Once you have your new lenses, a few simple habits can help you enjoy the best possible experience. Consistent care and an awareness of your eye comfort can make a significant difference to your comfort.
Proper Care & Handling
Always follow the wear schedule your doctor provides—whether it’s for daily, bi-weekly, or monthly disposable lenses. Overwearing your contacts can impact your eye health.
A proper cleaning and storage routine also helps keep your eyes healthy and your lenses comfortable. Never use water to clean or store your lenses. Use only the solution recommended by your eye care professional.
Address Dry Eye Symptoms
Contact lens wear can sometimes contribute to feelings of dryness or irritation. Fortunately, there are ways we can help, including getting you contacts for dry eyes.
The 20-20-20 Rule for Screen Time
To reduce eyestrain from digital devices like computers and phones, practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something at least 20 feet away. This simple habit helps your eye muscles relax.
Find Your Perfect Fit for Astigmatism Eye Care
You don’t have to choose between contact lenses and clear vision just because you have astigmatism. The right lenses, combined with a professional and thorough fitting, can give you the freedom from glasses you’re looking for. The first step is to get an expert opinion on what will work best for your eyes.
At Professional Eyecare Centers, our team is passionate about helping you achieve your vision goals. We take the time to listen to your needs and find a comfortable, effective solution.
When you’re ready to explore your options, one of our dedicated optometrists in North Dakota can perform a complete evaluation of your eyes. Schedule your contact lens fitting with us today—we look forward to helping you see clearly and comfortably.
