I have an astigmatism and wear a toric contact lens, which is unconfortable. Can I just wear a spherical lens?

Question

I have worn contacts for a few months now, and this is my second time finding a toric lens frustrating and uncomfortable compared with my other eye which is spherical. At the place where I buy contacts, it was suggested that I try wearing a spherical in my eye with an astigmatism, because I probably wouldn't notice a difference. Is it alright or a good idea to wear a spherical lens in an eye that isn't shaped for it? Or I should I keep my much less comfortable toric lens for it? I dont know if astigmatisms get worse over time and then could just be temporary, any advice would be helpful

thanks

Answer 1

it depends on how bad your astigmatism is.  if you don't have that much astigmatism (less than -1.00), most optometrists will prescribe spherical CL's since they are more comfortable for you.  see your optometrist and ask why they are reccomending toric CL's for you and have them address your concerns.  they may be recommending torics if you have a large amount of astigmatism.  

also, your astigmatism may or may not change depending on your age.  if you are well past puberty, your eyes should be stable for now and astigmatism won't change.  if you are still growing, i'd suggest getting the best correction you can.

a really good option is to go for glasses.  they can be fashionable, comfortable, and will definitely fix your astigmatism.  CL's are good for patients will none or low amounts of astigmatism.  so if you check with your dr. and it turns out you have a high amount of astigmatism, ask out their glasses, and hopefully you will find something you really like!

Answer 2

Hard or gas permeable contacts is another possible answer.

Answer 3

I have astigmatism in both eyes as well. I believe that the spherical lens wouldn't correct your astigmatism and would, therefore impair your vision. I've worn Frequency 55 Toric lenses for about 5 years now and they're pretty comfortable. My astigmatism has gotten much worse over time, so I think it's a permanent condition. Sorry.

Answer 4

I have astigmatism in both eyes, and I wear Acuvue lenses. They're really comfortable and I honestly can't feel them in my eyes. Maybe you could try using that brand?