Ametropia, whether it is myopia or hyperopia, is always a refractive error of the eye. This means that light is refracted either in front of or behind the retina. Astigmatism is a special refractive error.
The light emitted by an observed object does not focus on the retina, but is reproduced along a line. If the surface of the cornea is strongly curved, this leads to a higher refraction of light, and if the curvature is low, this leads to a low refraction. The amount of curvature of the cornea is expressed in dioptres.
For a healthy eye, an astigmatism of 0.5 dioptres is considered normal. It is either congenital or develops over time. The cornea is not circular, but elliptical, which creates a blurred image.
Contact lenses for astigmatism
If you think that this applies to you, do not hesitate to consult a specialist who will be able to adapt your contact lenses to your visual needs. Indeed, the precision of the adaptation is of paramount importance.
The diameter, radius, and angle of the lenses must be perfectly adapted to your eyes. Annual lenses are recommended as they ensure the best possible vision.
In case of astigmatism, either toric or multifocal contact lenses are recommended.
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They are available in both rigid and flexible versions. They are mainly used for people over 40 years of age who have difficulty seeing correctly between near and distance vision. It is also possible to correct one eye for near vision and the other eye for distance vision.
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Alternating multifocal contact lenses are similar to bifocal glasses. The upper part of the lens is for good distance vision, while the lower part is for close-up vision.
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Simultaneous contact lenses are manufactured in such a way that the distance effect is in the centre of the lens, while the peripheral zone of the lens is responsible for the near effect. Multifocal lenses significantly increase visual performance by correcting astigmatism.
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Hard lenses generally offer better visual performance than soft lenses, but are less likely to be worn because of the foreign body sensation they cause. Nevertheless, vision is more stable in the long term with hard lenses.
- Daily disposable nesofilcon A lenses
- Especially suitable for dry eyes
- High moisture content and wearing comfort
- Progressive design in 3 zones
Biotrue OneDay for presbyopia
Air Optix Aqua Multifocal
- For all distances
- High oxygenation
- Smooth surface to prevent deposits
Clariti Multifocal
- Monthly silicone hydrogel lens
- Very high water content
- Good oxygenation of the eye
- Excellent comfort
PureVision Multifocal
- Progressive contact lenses
- To be worn day and night for up to one month
- Good oxygenation
- The world's best-selling contact lens for presbyopia.
If you have never worn contact lenses before, you should try soft lenses first to get used to them.
Once you have gotten used to them, you can switch to rigid lenses.
An operation (corneal surgery) is also possible, often followed by laser eye treatment. As with any operation, there is of course a risk.
You may be wondering why it's better to start with soft lenses. Simply because they are more comfortable and easier to wear. They easily conform to the shape of your eye, making them more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time. Rigid lenses, on the other hand, require a longer adaptation period because they do not bend. It is therefore important to start with soft lenses to get used to the feel of wearing contact lenses.
Corneal surgery may be an option for those who want to get rid of their glasses or contact lenses for good. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks to consider. It is important to discuss these risks with your optician to ensure that you are a good candidate for surgery.
Ultimately, the decision to wear contact lenses or have corneal surgery depends on your personal preferences and eye health. If you decide to wear contact lenses, remember to take care of your eyes by cleaning your lenses regularly and following your optician's instructions.