Toric

Astigmastism is a common condition that is caused by the cornea not being perfectly spherical, but instead having an asymmetrical shape whereby it can be flatter on one side than the other. This means that light is not focused properly in one or both eyes, causing vision problems that were previously quite difficult to correct with contact lenses. A toric contact lens is required - one that is thicker on one side than the other - so that the light can be focused properly, and although these have been common in spectacles for many years, toric contact lenses are still quite a new invention.

The inherent problem with toric lenses is that, because the lens is not symmetrical as with regular spherical lenses, toric contacts won't work if they start sliding around or if they're not the proper way up. New manufacturing processes have meant that toric contact lenses are now easily affordable, and are often held in place by making the bottom of the lens thicker than the top (acting as a ballast) so that the lens is properly orientated whenever you blink. Toric contact lenses have two powers in them created with curvatures at different angles, one to correct the astigmatism and one to correct near- or far-sightedness.

Toric contact lenses are available both in soft and RGP varieties, and which is better for you is a matter of personal preference. Soft lenses are usually cheaper and easier to fit, plus they're often more comfortable and quicker to get used to, whereas RGP lenses offer clearer vision, are more durable, and retain their shape better. Contact lenses for astigmatism can now be bought in the same ways as regular lenses, with daily disposable, weekly, and monthly varieties of soft lenses, and you can even get some coloured lenses too.

As toric contacts are more complicated than regular lenses, they tend to require more time to fit and, due to the more advanced manufacturing process, can cost more than spherical lenses. If you suffer from a very mild astigmatism then you may prefer just to use regular contacts instead, as you may not notice the difference, but you should always consult an optician for your best options and to get the exact prescription for your eyes.

Toric contact lenses require the same careful cleaning and storage as any other contact lens, and you should always keep to your replacement schedule, never wearing a lens for longer than recommended. In addition, if you find your vision is not being correct properly by the toric lens then you should consult your optician immediately to make sure that your astigmatism is being corrected properly.