What Is Astigmatism? Causes, Symptoms & How It Affects Vision

5/27/2025 12:00:00 AM | Contact Lens King
What Is Astigmatism

What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common vision condition that causes blurred or distorted vision at all distances. It occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape. Instead of being perfectly round like a basketball, it’s shaped more like a football, which prevents light from focusing properly on the retina.

Astigmatism is not a disease, it’s simply a refractive error, like nearsightedness or farsightedness. But if left uncorrected, it can interfere with your daily activities and lower your quality of life.

What Causes Astigmatism?

There are two main types:

  • Corneal Astigmatism: Caused by an irregular shape of the cornea

  • Lenticular Astigmatism: Caused by an irregular shape of the lens inside the eye

Most cases of astigmatism are inherited and present from birth. It may also develop after eye surgery, injury, or as a result of certain conditions like keratoconus.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

Some people don’t even realize they have astigmatism until a routine eye exam. Common signs include:

  • Blurred or distorted vision

  • Eye strain or discomfort

  • Headaches, especially after reading or screen use

  • Difficulty seeing at night

  • Squinting frequently

How Is Astigmatism Diagnosed?

Your eye doctor can detect astigmatism through a comprehensive eye exam using tools like:

  • Phoropter: To test different lens powers

  • Keratometer: To measure the curvature of your cornea

  • Corneal topography: To map the surface of your eye in detail

Once diagnosed, the next step is finding the right vision correction, usually glasses or contact lenses for astigmatism.

Can You Wear Contacts With Astigmatism?

Yes! And in fact, contacts for astigmatism, also known as toric contact lenses, are specially designed to correct the irregular curvature of the eye. These lenses:

  • Stay stable on your eye without rotating

  • Have different powers in different meridians of the lens

  • Provide crisp, clear vision correction

  • Are available in daily, bi-weekly, and monthly options

Modern toric lenses are comfortable, breathable, and convenient, making them a great solution for people who don’t want to wear glasses full time.


Why Choose Contacts for Astigmatism?

There are many benefits to using contact lenses for astigmatism, including:

  • Improved vision clarity with a wide field of view

  • Greater comfort and mobility for active lifestyles

  • Enhanced appearance without eyeglass frames

  • Options for dry eyes or sensitive eyes, including silicone hydrogel lenses

At Contact Lens King, we offer a wide range of affordable toric lenses from top brands like Acuvue, Biofinity, Air Optix, and more.

Astigmatism may sound complicated, but managing it doesn't have to be. With a proper diagnosis and the right contact lenses, you can enjoy sharp, comfortable vision every day. Whether you're new to contacts or looking to switch from glasses, contacts for astigmatism are a game-changer.

Ready to Find the Right Contacts?

Explore our collection of toric contact lenses today and enjoy fast shipping, low prices, and top-tier customers.