Are Eyeglasses a Better Choice for Those Who Have Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is something that almost everyone has to some degree or another. What it means is that the cornea of the eye is shaped less round and more like a football, which does cause a few vision issues that are correctable. Those who have moderate to severe astigmatism may wonder if it is possible to wear contact lenses or if eyeglasses are a better choice. Here is some information on what to expect if you have astigmatism and how eyeglasses may be the better choice for you.

What is Astigmatism and How Does it Affect My Choice?

In a perfect cornea, that shape is round and much like a basketball. However, for those with astigmatism, the eye is more less round and more curved – much like a football.

The way this affects eyesight is that the light rays are focused clearly with those with the round shape because the lens and cornea are smooth and curved equally in every direction. If the shape of the cornea is not this smooth and round shape, it causes a refractive error, which is when the light rays are refracted improperly.

Astigmatism is not typically a serious matter but it does sometimes affect those who wish to wear contact lenses and in some cases, glasses are a better choice.

Why Are Contacts Sometimes Not a Good Choice for Moderate Astigmatism?

While you can wear contacts if you have astigmatism, the problem is that the vision will not be as clear as it will be with eyeglasses.

Now if you have slight astigmatism like many do, contact lenses are a fine choice since they will correct the problem pretty well. However, those with moderate to severe astigmatism need Toric contact lenses. What these do is have a tiny weight to make the contact lenses stay right side up when blinking. Now some contact lenses for astigmatism to not typically go out of focus but that is something that depends on the individual and the type of contact lenses they choose.

Why Are Glasses a Better Choice?

For some, glasses are a better choice for a number of reasons.

  • Less Expensive. Glasses are traditionally going to be less expensive than Toric contact lenses. Since these contacts have a special construction, they are usually higher than regular lenses.
  • Clearer Vision. Some degrees or types of astigmatism such as those with corneal scarring, may not benefit from contacts because although they do compensate for poor vision, the vision is not going to be quite as crisp and clear as with eyeglasses.
  • Easier to Use. Sure, most anyone can learn to use contact lenses but they’re never as simple as slipping on a comfortable pair of glasses instead. There is a learning curve and especially for those who are first-time wearers. Plus, there is always the slightly higher risk of infections or eye problems. These aren’t the norm but it is a little higher than with simply wearing eyeglasses.

Ultimately, you have to make your own choice on which is better for you – eyeglasses or contact lenses.

However, if you do have astigmatism that is elevated then your eye doctor may have told you the pros and cons on which is better for good vision, lower cost, and ease of use.

If you do decide that you would rather have eyeglasses for these reasons, there are many choices available that are stylish, affordable, and perfect for your prescription. If you want to learn more about what we have to offer and haven’t found the answer on our site, simply contact us and we will be more than happy to help you out.

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