Can I wear contact lenses if I have astigmatism?

Good news! This is outdated information. You absolutely can wear contact lenses if you have astigmatism – and many people with astigmatism find that contacts work brilliantly for them.

Years ago, options were limited, but modern contact lens technology now enables most people with astigmatism to be successfully fitted. Here's what's available:

Toric soft contact lenses are the most popular choice. These specially designed lenses contain varying powers throughout to correct the different amounts of refractive errors in different areas of the cornea. They're available as daily disposables, bi-weeklies, or monthlies, so you have plenty of flexibility.

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are another excellent option. These lenses maintain their shape on your eye, and your tears fill the gap between the lens and eye, neutralising the astigmatism. They often provide sharper vision than soft lenses, though they take a bit longer to get used to.

For higher levels of astigmatism, there are also scleral lenses and hybrid lenses that combine the benefits of both types.

The key is getting properly fitted by your optometrist. Contact lenses may provide clearer vision and a wider field of view than glasses for many people with astigmatism. Your optometrist will assess your specific prescription and lifestyle needs to recommend the best option for you.

So don't let outdated advice hold you back – book an appointment with your optometrist to discuss which contact lenses would work best for your astigmatism.

References:

College of Optometrists: https://www.college-optometrists.org
Association of Optometrists (AOP): https://www.aop.org.uk
NHS information on contact lenses: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contact-lenses

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