When individuals suffer from astigmatism, they experience distorted and blurry vision. If they only have a small amount of astigmatism, they might not even notice it in their vision. If they have larger amounts of astigmatism, then focusing on small print can be challenging. While glasses are a common solution for astigmatism, many individuals also opt for contact lenses, which provide convenience and a more natural visual experience.
To acquire contact lenses for astigmatism, an eye exam is necessary to determine the appropriate prescription. If you are in need of an eye care appointment in Tampa, consider reaching out to Dr. Weil at Absolutely Optical, for assistance with your eye exam and contact lens fitting.
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, leading to an uneven curvature that affects the way light enters the eye. Rather than focusing on a single point on the retina, the light is dispersed, resulting in blurred vision. Individuals with astigmatism may also experience eye strain, headaches, and difficulty seeing at night.
Astigmatism Contact Lenses
For those with astigmatism, specially designed contact lenses are available to correct vision and provide comfort. These lenses are known as toric contact lenses and are tailored to address the unique shape and curvature of the eye. Traditional soft contact lenses, can now be made with special curves to perfectly match the curvature of the eye’s cornea. If the astigmatism is too severe to be corrected with a soft contact lens, there are also gas permeable hard contact lenses. These lenses are made from a breathable and rigid material that helps maintain their shape on the eye, ensuring proper correction of the astigmatism.
Toric contact lenses offer several advantages:
1. Accurate Vision Correction: Toric lenses are precisely crafted to align with the irregular corneal curvature, allowing light to be properly focused on the retina. This results in clearer and sharper vision for individuals with astigmatism.
2. Enhanced Stability: The design of toric lenses includes weighted components that help keep the lenses in the correct position on the eye. This stability ensures consistent vision correction and reduces lens rotation, which can cause fluctuating vision.
3. Comfortable Fit: Despite being rigid, toric lenses are designed to be comfortable to wear throughout the day. The breathable material allows for adequate oxygen flow to the eyes, reducing dryness and discomfort.
Regular Eye Exams for Astigmatism
If you have astigmatism, it is essential to have regular eye exams to monitor your vision and ensure the accuracy of your prescription. The curvature of the cornea can change over time, necessitating periodic adjustments to your contact lenses. Annual visits to your eye care professional will help maintain optimal vision and address any changes in your eye health.
Schedule Your Eye Care Appointment at Absolutely Optical
To receive personalized care and guidance regarding contact lenses for astigmatism, contact Absolutely Optical in Tampa. Their experienced Optometrist, Dr. Jay Weil, can provide comprehensive eye exams, determine the best contact lens options for your needs; and, assist with fittings and adjustments. Call (813) 348-9696 today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward improved vision and comfort.