Astigmatism is a common and often treatable imperfection of the eye's curvature, which results in blurry vision at all distances. A refractive error causes the light that enters the eyes to bend unevenly. However, corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses are possible remedies.
At Eye Site Texas in Katy and Houston, TX, we are committed to delivering exceptional eye care to help maintain your vision. Our certified optometrist can identify astigmatism at various stages and recommend the appropriate treatment. Read on to learn more about astigmatism contact lenses.
Eye Glasses or Contact Lenses?
Astigmatism can easily progress over time if left untreated for too long, leading to visual acuity loss. Although it is easily correctable through spectacle lenses, others do better with contact lenses. Usually, astigmatism above 1 degree can cause significant visual disturbance. In this case, you should wear eyeglasses as your eyes won't have to adjust too much.
However, astigmatism only sometimes improves with eyeglasses. If your vision does not improve, you may have to consider contacts after an extensive eye exam. Those with astigmatism cannot wear normal contact lenses. After the diagnosis, our optometrist may prescribe toric or rigid glass permeable contact lenses.
Types of Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Contact lenses for astigmatism are specially designed to correct the irregular curvature of the cornea in individuals with astigmatism. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is shaped more like an oval than a circle, leading to distorted and blurred vision at all distances. Here are the primary types of toric contact lenses for astigmatism:
Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses
Hard contact lenses are wearable as day-to-day visual aids or to temporarily reshape the cornea. To help even your eye's curvature, you may only require contact lenses for a few hours, usually at night, and remove them in the daytime. With time, you can reduce wear time to help your eyes maintain the new shape.
Soft Toric Contact Lenses
These lenses are comfortable and organically adjust to the shape of your eyes. It is crucial to get the right fit of soft toric lenses. Our eye doctor takes the cornea's curvature and pupil measurements during a contact lens exam. Toric contact lenses are more effective than standard lenses as they have a thicker zone to keep them from rotating in the eyes while maintaining consistent visual acuity. These contacts remain oriented the same way every time.
Scleral Lenses
Rigid gas-permeable contact lenses with a larger diameter cover the cornea and extend to the sclera. These contacts are more comfortable as they vault over the cornea, unlike other lenses that sit on it. These lenses also have a tear reservoir beneath them to keep your eyes hydrated. Unlike soft lenses, these are stable, thus ensuring less mobility in the eye.
Astigmatism Eye Care in Katy and Houston
Eye care is integral to your well-being. Finding a clinic that extends the best service is essential. Our team of eye doctors in Katy and Houston, TX, prioritizes your wellness and comfort. We provide various treatment options at your convenience. Visit one of our Eye Site eye clinics to experience exceptional eye care. You can also contact our team at Katy (281) 644-2010 or Memorial (713) 984-9144 for any inquiries or to schedule an appointment.