Are streetlights looking like starbursts when you drive at night? Maybe words on a screen look slightly smeared even when you squint. These visual changes can occur with astigmatism.
Finding the right correction method can make a big difference in your daily life. Both contacts and glasses can effectively correct astigmatism, so the right choice depends entirely on your daily activities and comfort preferences. Our team at Total Vision Huntington Beach can help you find a comfortable fit.
Key Takeaways
- Astigmatism changes how light hits your retina.
- Glasses offer easy maintenance with custom lenses.
- Toric or rigid contact lenses help correct uneven corneas.
- Your lifestyle helps determine your ideal vision correction.
- Regular eye exams track your specific prescription needs.
The Basics of Astigmatism and Your Vision
An irregularly shaped cornea scatters light before it reaches your retina. This scattered light can make daily tasks like reading or driving difficult. You might notice several specific changes in your vision throughout the day, including:
- Blurry or distorted vision at all distances
- Frequent headaches or constant eye strain
- Poor night vision with visible glare
How Cornea Shape Changes Sight
Your comparison is spot on. In a “normal” eye, the cornea and lens have a uniform curvature, much like the surface of a basketball. In an eye with astigmatism, the surface is shaped more like a football or the back of a spoon. This means the eye has one steep curve and one flatter curve.
Because the football shape has 2 different curvatures, light is bent differently depending on where it enters. This creates 2 different focal points. These points can fall in front of the retina, behind it, or both. Because the light isn’t converging on one sharp spot, images appear blurry or distorted at all distances.
Regular eye exams can map out the exact shape of your cornea. Your eye doctor can then measure your specific refractive error to find the right correction method.
Benefits of Glasses for Astigmatism
Glasses can provide a simple way to see clearly throughout your day. You just slide them on your face in the morning without touching your eyes. This hands-off approach helps prevent bacteria from being transmitted to your sensitive corneas.
Modern lenses can also match your exact prescription needs. A custom pair of glasses can correct severe astigmatism while offering a wide field of vision. They are easy to wear, clean, and maintain daily.
Options for Astigmatism Contact Lenses
Soft Toric Lenses
Soft toric lenses provide an alternative to traditional frames. These comfortable materials conform directly to your eye shape for a secure fit. They feature built-in weights that keep the lens properly aligned over your uneven cornea.
This weighted design helps keep the lens from rotating every time you blink. You can find toric lenses in daily, biweekly, or monthly replacement schedules. A fresh pair can help you maintain clear sight without the hassle of frames.
Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses
Some eyes need a firmer material to achieve sharp vision. Rigid gas-permeable lenses hold their shape to gently correct uneven corneas. The firm material creates a smooth, rounded surface that allows light to pass through.
These lenses offer crisp vision for moderate to high astigmatism. Your eyes require a brief adjustment period to get used to the firmer material. Many people find that they provide sharper sight than soft lenses once they adapt.
Habits to Avoid with Astigmatism and Contacts
Sleep Rules for Contact Lenses
Your eyes need oxygen to stay healthy and clear. Sleeping with lenses blocks this important oxygen flow to your cornea. You should never sleep with your lenses still in your eyes.
Always take out your contacts, even before a 20-minute nap on the couch. Resting closed eyes for 5 minutes is generally fine during a busy afternoon. Removing your lenses at night can help you avoid uncomfortable red eyes the next morning.
Practices for Healthy Vision
Your eyes change as the years go by. You should attend annual exams since your prescription needs can shift over time. Regular visits help your eye doctor track any subtle changes in your cornea shape.
Guidance for Your Eye Care Choices
How to Make a Decision
Choosing between frames and contacts comes down to your personal routine. You should discuss lifestyle factors such as sports or long hours of computer work. A tennis player might prefer contacts to avoid sliding frames during a match, whereas a business professional may prefer a stylish pair of glasses.
Consider your comfort preferences and your budget for regular lens replacements. You can try both options to see what feels right for you.
Partner with Your Local Team
You don’t have to make this vision choice alone. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam every year to explore your options.
Our team at Total Vision Huntington Beach can help you evaluate the benefits of each method. Proper eye care can help your whole family enjoy clear sight for years to come. Book your routine eye exam today!
