Can I Wear Normal Contacts With Astigmatism?
The short answer is: no, you generally cannot wear standard spherical contact lenses if you have astigmatism. Astigmatism is a common refractive error where the cornea (the clear front part of your eye) is irregularly shaped, causing blurred vision at all distances. Standard contact lenses, often called spherical lenses, correct only nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia) by focusing light evenly onto the retina. They are unable to compensate for the uneven focusing caused by an astigmatic cornea.
Trying to wear spherical contacts with astigmatism will likely result in blurry or distorted vision, eye strain, headaches, and potentially discomfort. Your vision won't be corrected, and forcing your eyes to compensate can lead to further eye problems.
What Types of Contact Lenses Correct Astigmatism?
To effectively correct astigmatism, you need specialized contact lenses called toric contact lenses. These lenses have a different curvature than spherical lenses; they're designed with varying power across their surface to counteract the unevenness of your cornea. This allows for clear and comfortable vision.
What are the Differences Between Spherical and Toric Contact Lenses?
Here's a breakdown of the key differences:
| Feature | Spherical Contact Lenses | Toric Contact Lenses |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Perfectly spherical | Irregular, toric shape |
| Astigmatism Correction | No | Yes |
| Vision Correction | Myopia/Hyperopia only | Myopia/Hyperopia and Astigmatism |
| Comfort (with astigmatism) | Poor | Good |
| Visual Acuity (with astigmatism) | Poor | Good |
What Happens if I Wear Spherical Contacts with Astigmatism?
As mentioned earlier, wearing the wrong type of contact lens can lead to several problems:
- Blurry Vision: This is the most obvious consequence. The uneven focusing caused by astigmatism won't be corrected.
- Eye Strain and Headaches: Your eyes will work harder to compensate for the blurred vision, leading to fatigue and headaches.
- Discomfort: The lenses might not fit properly, causing irritation and dryness.
- Potential for Eye Damage: While unlikely in the short term, prolonged use of incorrect lenses could potentially lead to eye strain and discomfort.
How Can I Find Out if I Have Astigmatism?
An eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist is the only reliable way to determine if you have astigmatism and the correct prescription for contact lenses. They will perform a comprehensive eye exam to measure your refractive error and determine the best type of lenses for your needs.
How do I get Toric Contact Lenses?
Your eye doctor will perform a thorough eye exam to determine the appropriate prescription for toric contact lenses. They will also guide you on proper insertion, removal, and care of the lenses.
Remember, your vision is important. Don't attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat astigmatism. Always consult with an eye care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can help you find the best solution for clear and comfortable vision.
