Astigmatism is a refractive error that occurs when light entering the eye is not correctly focused. As a result, images may appear blurry or distorted and vision may be affected. People with astigmatism typically experience problems when trying to focus on nearby objects (such as fine print) and are often uncomfortable when reading or driving for long periods. Fortunately, contact lenses can usually provide an effective treatment for astigmatism. With astigmatism contact lenses, you can see clearly and correctly. Various contact lenses are available today, each designed to correct different types and degrees of astigmatism.
Toric Contact Lenses
Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism (being discontinued)
Biofinity Toric
1-Day Acuvue Moist for Astigmatism 90 Pack
Acuvue Oasys 1-Day for Astigmatism 90 Pack
Acuvue Vita for Astigmatism 6 Pack
Air Optix HydraGlyde for Astigmatism 6 Pack
Acuvue Oasys 1-Day for Astigmatism 30 Pack
Avaira Vitality Toric 6 Pack
Clariti 1 Day Toric 90 Pack
1-Day Acuvue Moist for Astigmatism 30 Pack
When buying contacts with astigmatism, you have two choices: Toric or Spherical. Most people with this condition require Toric lenses, specifically designed to correct astigmatism and provide clear vision. Spherical lenses will not correct astigmatism and may even worsen your vision.
With astigmatism contacts, individuals have different focal points in different eye meridians. It causes blurred vision both near and distant. Toric contact lenses are designed to correct this astigmatism by aligning with the cornea's natural shape. The result is clear, consistent vision throughout the day.
Here is a cursory glance over what you need to know about toric/astigmatism contact lenses.
Are you considering trying toric contact lenses to treat your astigmatism? If so, there are several pros and cons that you should consider before deciding.
PROS:
For toric astigmatism contact lenses, it is necessary to consider both the power of the lens and the positioning of the optical zone on the eye. It ensures that light entering your eye will be focused correctly on your retina for clear vision.
The top 10 toric contact lenses are:
Day Acuvue Moist contact lenses for astigmatism are made from a unique hydrogel material that creates a smooth surface, allowing the contact lens to resist deposits and glide more easily over the eye's cornea. It is also designed to retain as much moisture as possible, providing a comfortable fit and preventing the eyes from becoming dry and red.
Aquaform Technology makes the material in Biofinity Toric contacts even softer and more flexible, keeping your eyes moist and comfortable all day long. With Optical Stabilization Design (OSD), this lens is better able to keep its shape, no matter how often you blink or move your eye. And with a light blue handling tint, you can be sure you're getting the right fit every time.
Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism 6-pack contact lenses is designed to help keep your eyes comfortable and healthy, even in challenging environments. These contacts feature Blink Stabilized technology, which helps prevent the lens from rotating on your eye when you blink. It keeps your vision clear and stable all day long!
These lenses use so-called Advanced Aspheric Optics, meaning light is refracted much more precisely than other toric lenses. It helps make vision sharp and clear, even if you have astigmatism. Proclear Toric XR lenses are also made with PC Technology which helps to keep eyes moist and comfortable throughout the day.
Acuvue Oasys 1-Day for Astigmatism 30 Pack is an advanced silicone hydrogel contact lens that offers exceptional vision quality, comfort and health benefits. This lens incorporates technology known as Hydra Luxe, which provides superior hydration by mimicking the lipid layer of your eyes to keep them feeling fresh all day long. It means they will feel moist and comfortable throughout the day.
Toric contacts for astigmatism can be quite costly, with average prices between $50 and $200 per lens. One affordable option is to purchase contact lens solutions and other care supplies directly from your eye doctor, which may offer discounted rates compared to purchasing these items in retail stores.
Another cost-effective option to save on your toric contact lenses for astigmatism is to purchase generic toric contact lenses online. Many online retailers offer competitive prices on a wide selection of high-quality lenses and many offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
There is a wide range of cheap contacts for astigmatism available today, making it easier for individuals with astigmatism to get the clear, crisp vision they need. Additionally, many online retailers offer discounts or loyalty programs that can help you save even more money on your toric contact lens purchases.
If you are looking for the cheapest toric contact lenses, do not forget to research and compare prices from multiple retailers before making your purchase.
You'll need a prescription from your eye doctor for toric contact lenses. These astigmatism contacts are designed to correct vision problems.
To use Toric contact lenses and achieve optimal results, you should follow these steps:
Yes, toric lenses correct astigmatism using specially shaped contacts that curve and bend to match the eye's irregularities. However, if a contact lens for astigmatism is not designed or worn properly, there's a risk that it won't correct your astigmatism as intended or may even worsen your vision.
The level of astigmatism required to necessitate a toric lens depends on several factors, including the type and severity of astigmatism and the patient's age. If astigmatism is less than 3D, it can be corrected with a spherical contact lens. However, higher levels of astigmatism will require a toric lens to correct the irregularities in the cornea and provide clear and comfortable vision.
The difference between toric and astigmatism contact lenses is that a toric lens corrects for both nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). In contrast, the astigmatism lens is only correct for the latter. Moreover, toric lenses are designed specifically for those with astigmatism, whereas normal vision and nearsightedness can be corrected using a standard spherical lens.
The settling time of toric contacts can vary significantly depending on the specific type and design of the contact lenses. Factors that influence a contact lens's settling time include lens design, power and base curve and the conditions in which a contact lens is worn. For example, some soft toric contacts will settle more quickly than other types of soft toric lenses, while rigid gas permeable (RGP) toric lenses may take longer to stabilize.
Toric contact lenses are slightly more uncomfortable than regular soft contact lenses because they have to sit in a specific way on the eye's cornea to correct astigmatism. It can sometimes make them feel slightly less comfortable than other types of contacts. However, toric / astigmatism contacts are generally still very comfortable and easy to wear, especially if you get the right lens and take good care of them
Yes, it is possible to sleep while wearing toric contact lenses. Toric contacts are specially designed to fit the unique contours of your eyes, so they are more likely to stay in place during sleep. However, this does not mean you can throw them on and fall asleep without issues. You should still practice good eye care habits and take care to remove the lenses before going to bed.
As you age, it's common for astigmatism to worsen as the curvature and flexibility of your lens decrease. Other factors contributing to worsening astigmatism include chronic eye infections, trauma to your eye and certain medications. Additionally, your cornea's shape may change due to poor vision correction or an irregularly shaped lens.
If you wear non-toric lenses with astigmatism, the lens will not be able to correct your vision properly. As a result, you may experience distorted vision, eye strain, headaches and other discomforts. For optimal vision, it is best to consult an optometrist about getting custom toric lenses for your specific needs.
Astigmatism contact can be more expensive than standard contacts due to their unique design requirements. Generally, these types of contacts will have an aspheric or multifocal design to help correct the refractive error caused by astigmatism. It can make them more costly and more effective at providing a clear vision. In many cases, contacts for astigmatism are covered by insurance, so the cost will depend on your plan.
There are a few reasons for this:
The wearing time depends on the type and brand of lenses. You should wear lenses 8-12 hours a day.
Follow these instructions to properly care for your lenses:
The replacement schedule depends on the type and brand of contacts. The standard replacement schedule for toric lenses is either monthly or biweekly.
The price varies depending on the brand and the specific type of lens. The price may range from $35 to $150 per box for monthly or bi-weekly disposable lenses.
Your eye care practitioner will give you a contact lens insertion instruction to ensure you are comfortable putting and removing them.
We do not recommend that you swim in your contacts. The American Optometric Association recommends removing your lenses before swimming as it can lead to growth of bacteria.
No, they do not correct color blindness. You can use other available lenses for color blindness including EnChroma Lenses, X-Chrom Lenses, etc.
Certain contact lenses are designed for people with dry eyes. An example would be "Toric XR" lenses that incorporate advanced moisture-retaining technologies. However, we recommend you consult your eye care specialist to determine the best toric contacts for you.
Yes, you an wear contacts during sports activities. Brands like Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism and Biofinity Toric are popular choices for sports activities. We however do recommend that you wear protective eyewear as necessary.
There have been toric color contact lenses in the past but at this time, they have all been discontinued.
Yes, you can wear these contact lenses with makeup, but you must exercise caution to avoid infection or irritation. Here are some pointers:
If you suspect that you are allergic to your toric contact lenses. It is important that you consult your eyecare specialist.
Allergic reaction symptoms to may include:
Whether or not the toric contracts can be used for sensitive eyes largely depends on the cause of sensitivity. There are certain brands that are designed for people with sensitive eyes such as Dailies AquaComfort Plus Toric and Biofinity Toric XR. It is important that you consult your eye care specialist to help you decide on the best contacts for you.
Even though there is no known risk, it is best to consult your doctor before using any product during your pregnancy. Some women may experience allergic reactions or changes in vision or symptoms that could affect their pregnancy. To ensure your safety talk to your doctors about your specific needs or concerns.