People with astigmatism have several options to regain clear vision. T
hey include:
Eyeglasses. People with astigmatism primarily choose eyeglasses to improve their vision. The eyeglasses contain a special cylindrical lens prescription that compensates for the astigmatism. This provides additional power in specific parts of the lens.
Generally, a single-vision lens is prescribed to provide clear vision at all distances. However, patients over age 40 who have presbyopia may need a bifocal or progressive addition lens.
Contact lenses. Some people will have better vision with contact lenses rather than eyeglasses. Contact lenses may provide clearer vision and a wider field of view.
However, since contact lenses are worn directly on the eyes, they require regular cleaning and care to safeguard eye health. Standard soft lenses may not be effective in correcting astigmatism. However, special toric soft contact lenses can correct for many types of astigmatism.
Because rigid gas-permeable contact lenses maintain their regular shape while on the cornea, they can compensate for the cornea's irregular shape and improve vision for people with astigmatism.
