Contact Lens for Astigmatism
Contact lens for astigmatism is a relatively new idea. Traditionally those with astigmatism could not consider wearing contact lenses, however recent developments have meant that not only will contact lenses do not harm for astigmatism, but there is actually a contact lens for astigmatism that is said to improve the eyesight.
What is Astigmatism?
Before the benefits of a contact lens for astigmatism can be fully understood, it is necessary to consider what exactly astigmatism is. Astigmatism means that the cornea is oval shaped rather than spherical, resulting in blurred vision or in more severe cases headaches and tired eyes.
What makes locating a contact lens for astigmatism particularly complicated is that astigmatic eyes often suffer from further complications such as different amounts of curvature at different points within the eye.
Causes of Astigmatism
No one is entirely sure what causes astigmatism, it is thought that most people have some degree of astigmatism, but only a few people are effected badly enough to require a contact lens for astigmatism.
There is some research to suggest that astigmatism requiring correction is more likely if one or both parents suffer from substantial astigmatism, similarly, poor nutrition is also thought to increase the need for contact lenses.
Surgery for Astigmatism
Contact lens for astigmatism is a great way of correcting astigmatism that is experienced alongside either near or far sightedness. In some cases, however, surgery will also be needed to deal with the astigmatism.
Laser, and more recently lasik, is the most common means of modern astigmatism correction by surgery. Lasik surgery is done on an outpatient basis and is relatively discomfort free. Using contact lens for astigmatism prior to surgery will not have a negative effect on this procedure.
Much of the negativity surrounding the idea of contact lens for astigmatism is due to the old style, RK surgery method that made wearing contact lenses after surgery both uncomfortable and unsafe. RK surgery involves using a diamond edged blade to make several incisions around the cornea; these cuts allow the cornea to bulge in such a way that the vision is corrected. This method of surgery is both unpredictable and painful which also weakens the structure of the eye. Therefore, RK surgery has been largely discontinued in favor of less invasive methods.
After surgery, contact lens for astigmatism may be used as a precautionary means of preventing a re-occurrence.
Contact Lens for Astigmatism
The most appropriate contact lens for astigmatism is called a toric lens. As astigmatism is due to the light bending properties of your eye often referred to as presbyopia, toric contact lenses have an additional cylinder, which bends the light in a corrective manner. Bifocal contact lenses can also correct astigmatism.
Depending on the level of astigmatism that you have, there are different contact lenses available. Anyone with very minor levels of astigmatism, e.g. under 1.00D, can generally wear normal soft lenses as their vision will be very little if any difference between wearing glass and contact lens for astigmatism.
Focus daily torics are a suitable contact lens for astigmatism that is more than minimal, but not severe e.g. up to 1.50D. Astigmatism of this level is not generally adversely affected by wearing contact lenses, but standard lenses will do little to actually correct the problem.
If you have astigmatism that is more severe, say over 2.00D then the only suitable contact lens for astigmatism of this nature is a toric lens. Toric lenses are available as either soft lenses or rigid gas permeable (rgp), however generally soft lenses are preferred due to their corrective nature. This choice of contact lens for astigmatism is just as affective as traditional glasses.
There is a huge choice when it comes to choosing a contact lens for astigmatism, in fact the FDA have approved 42 different types of soft toric lenses!
Disadvantages of Using a Contact Lens for Astigmatism
As with any medical option, contact lens for astigmatism is not for everyone. Many people find that placing contact lenses in their eyes is a thought that they cannot bear, particularly if they have had to undergo considerable eye surgery under local anaesthetic.
A contact lens for astigmatism is designed specifically to not move on the pupil. Normal contact lenses are generally free to rotate and move up and down as the eyeball moves and the wearer blinks. However, due to the nature of astigmatism, the contact lens for astigmatism cannot be allowed the same freedom to move.
Tips for Wearing Contact Lens for Astigmatism
Try alternating between contact lenses and glasses, as eyes can get a little weary or dry if they permanently have contact lenses in them.
A prescription is vital before purchasing a contact lens for astigmatism, all individuals choosing to wear contact lenses as a means of astigmatism correction must make sure that they have an up to date and personal prescription, otherwise they will place their eyesight in danger.
Contact lenses for astigmatism are now readily available - go on try them!
