Astigmatism is a common vision condition that causes blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is irregularly shaped, affecting how light enters the eye. While eyeglasses can correct astigmatism, many people prefer the convenience and cosmetic benefits of contact lenses. At Caroline Robison Optometry in Tehachapi and Ridgecrest, CA, we offer a range of contact lens options for patients with astigmatism.
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism is often present from birth but can also develop later in life. Symptoms of astigmatism include blurry vision, eye strain, headaches, and difficulty seeing at night. While astigmatism can occur alone, it often accompanies nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Contact Lens Options for Astigmatism
Several types of contact lenses are available to correct astigmatism, including:
• Toric contact lenses: These lenses have a specific curvature to counteract the irregular shape of the cornea. Toric lenses are available in both soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) materials.
• Hybrid contact lenses: These lenses combine the comfort of soft contact lenses with the visual acuity of RGP lenses. They feature a rigid gas permeable center surrounded by a soft outer ring.
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses: These gas permeable contact lenses are designed to temporarily reshape the cornea while worn during sleep. This non-surgical approach can reduce the need for daytime vision correction.
Choosing the Right Contact Lenses
Selecting the best contact lens option for astigmatism depends on various factors, including the severity of your astigmatism, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences. Our optometrist will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to determine the most suitable contact lens type for you.
Contact Lens Care and Maintenance
Proper care of contact lenses is essential for maintaining good eye health and preventing infections. Our optometrist will provide specific instructions on how to clean, store, and disinfect your contact lenses. Regular follow-up appointments are also important to monitor your eye health and ensure the continued effectiveness of your contact lenses.
Contact Caroline Robison Optometry
At Caroline Robison Optometry, we are committed to providing personalized eye care services to our patients. Our experienced optometrists will work with you to find the best contact lens solution for your astigmatism. Call our office in Tehachapi today at (661) 972-6890 or our office in Ridgecrest at (760) 375-4496 to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor near you.