For many people, contact lenses are a necessity for clear vision. But what about those who want to change their eye color, too? Can you wear colored contacts if you have astigmatism?
You might have heard that colored contact lenses are only for people without vision problems. That’s not entirely true! While it used to be more challenging, advances in optometry now mean there are options for those with astigmatism who want to enhance or change their eye color.
Understanding Astigmatism and Contact Lenses
Let’s clarify what astigmatism is and how it affects your vision. In simple terms, astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the front surface of your eye) or the lens inside your eye has an irregular shape. Instead of being perfectly round, it’s shaped more like a football. This imperfection causes light to focus unevenly on the retina (the back of your eye), leading to blurry or distorted vision at all distances.
Traditional contact lenses for astigmatism, also known as toric lenses, are designed to correct this irregular shape and provide clear vision. They achieve this through a specific design element called a “toric” or “cylinder” that compensates for the curvature differences in your cornea.
[image-1|colored-contact-lenses-astigmatism|Colored contact lenses for astigmatism|A close-up image of a person with astigmatism putting in a colored toric contact lens.]
Colored Contacts for Astigmatism: What are the Options?
Now, let’s address the main question: can you get colored contact lenses if you have astigmatism? The answer is yes! You have a couple of options:
1. Colored Toric Contact Lenses:
The most common solution is to find colored contact lenses specifically designed for astigmatism. These lenses are similar in construction to regular toric lenses but with an added color tint. They provide both vision correction and the desired color change.
2. Piggybacking Contact Lenses:
In some cases, your eye care professional might suggest “piggybacking” lenses. This technique involves wearing two lenses in one eye: a regular toric lens for astigmatism correction underneath a colored contact lens without a prescription. While this method can be effective, it’s less common and requires careful fitting and monitoring by your eye doctor.
Finding the Right Colored Contacts for You
If you have astigmatism and are considering colored contacts, it’s essential to consult with an experienced eye care professional. They will:
- Determine the severity of your astigmatism: The availability of colored toric lenses can depend on the degree of your astigmatism.
- Assess your eye health: A comprehensive eye exam ensures your eyes are healthy enough for contact lens wear.
- Recommend suitable brands and types: Your eye doctor can guide you towards reputable brands that offer colored toric lenses in your prescription.
[image-2|woman-trying-colored-contacts|Woman trying on colored contact lenses.|A woman with astigmatism smiles as she looks in the mirror, trying on different colored contact lenses with her eye doctor’s guidance.]
Essential Tips for Wearing Colored Contacts with Astigmatism
- Follow your eye doctor’s instructions carefully: Proper lens care and hygiene are crucial to prevent eye infections and complications.
- Don’t sleep in your contacts: This can increase the risk of eye infections.
- Attend regular eye exams: Regular check-ups allow your eye doctor to monitor your eye health and ensure the lenses are fitting correctly.
Conclusion
While it might require a bit more effort to find the right fit, colored contact lenses are a viable option for individuals with astigmatism. By consulting with your eye care professional, you can achieve both clear vision and the eye color you desire. Remember, your eye health is paramount, so always prioritize professional guidance and proper lens care.
