Contact Lenses for Astigmatism: Your Ultimate Guide to Toric Lenses
Are you one of those people who have been blessed with not-perfect eyesight? Do you have astigmatism? Well, don’t worry! You’re not alone. In fact, it’s estimated that about 30% of the population has some degree of astigmatism.
The bad news is that finding the right contact lenses can be a challenge for people with astigmatism. But the good news is that there is a solution: toric lenses. In this article, we will guide you through what you need to know about these types of contact lenses.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common vision problem caused by an irregular curvature of the eye’s cornea or lens. This means the light rays entering the eye are not focused on a single point, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
What are Toric Lenses?
Toric lenses are designed specifically for people with astigmatism. They are different from regular contact lenses in that they have multiple prescriptions built into the lens. This helps to correct the different curvatures of the eye, allowing light to be focused properly on the retina. In other words, toric lenses are like a custom-made solution for your specific astigmatism correction.
How Do Toric Lenses Work?
Toric lenses work by having two different powers in the lens. One power is for astigmatism correction, and the other is for near or far-sightedness. The different powers help to correct the irregular shape of the cornea or lens and allow the light to be focused correctly on the retina.
Types of Toric Lenses
There are two types of toric lenses: soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. Soft toric lenses are made of a soft, flexible material and are more comfortable to wear than RGP lenses. RGP lenses, on the other hand, are more durable and provide sharper vision.
Choosing the right type of toric lens will depend on your specific needs and lifestyle. If you have an active lifestyle, you may want to consider soft toric lenses, as they are more comfortable for extended periods of wear. If you are looking for sharper vision and don’t mind the extra upkeep, RGP lenses may be a better choice.
Are Toric Lenses More Expensive?
Toric lenses are slightly more expensive than regular contact lenses because of their custom design. However, the cost difference is not significant, and they are still affordable for most people.
Tips for Wearing Toric Lenses
Here are a few tips to follow when wearing toric lenses:
1. Always ask your eye doctor for a proper fitting and prescription.
2. Make sure to wear the lens in the correct orientation. Toric lenses have a specific orientation that must be followed to ensure proper vision correction.
3. Clean and care for your lenses properly to avoid eye infections and irritation.
4. Don’t forget to take a break from your lenses as recommended by your eye doctor.
In Conclusion
Toric lenses are a great solution for people with astigmatism as they provide a custom-made solution for your specific needs. They are a slightly more expensive option, but the benefits outweigh the cost. By following the above tips, you can ensure you have comfortable and clear vision all day long. So, what are you waiting for? Go and book an appointment with your eye doctor to explore this wonderful world of toric lenses!