Astigmatism and Myopia: Do You Need Toric Lenses?

Astigmatism and myopia?

Hello Doctor: I am nearing my age with myopia of R875-150 and L650-125.
Is it possible that my condition will not worsen? Also, can I wear contact lenses without astigmatism correction? The optical shop said that wearing the full prescription is sufficient.
Will this have any long-term effects on my vision? Thank you.

Xiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/08

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology

If you are over the age of 25, your vision will not worsen unless there are other eye conditions, such as cataracts or degenerative myopia.
Generally, standard non-toric soft contact lenses can correct astigmatism of less than one diopter, while rigid gas permeable lenses can correct astigmatism up to three diopters.
Therefore, if you are not wearing toric lenses, you may experience some residual astigmatism, which can slightly affect your vision, but the impact is minimal.
If you want to see very clearly, you can opt for toric lenses, although they may be more expensive.
Not wearing toric lenses does not affect the health of your eyes; it simply results in poorer vision.

Reply Date: 2006/03/08

More Info

Astigmatism and myopia are common refractive errors that affect vision. Understanding these conditions is crucial for determining the appropriate corrective lenses, such as toric lenses for astigmatism.
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, causing light to focus on multiple points rather than a single point on the retina. This can lead to blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Myopia, or nearsightedness, is when distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. Your prescription indicates that you have both myopia and astigmatism, with specific values for each eye.

Regarding your question about whether your myopia will continue to worsen, it is important to note that myopia can progress, especially during childhood and adolescence. However, many individuals stabilize in their late teens or early adulthood. Factors such as genetics, environmental influences, and lifestyle choices (like prolonged near work or screen time) can affect the progression of myopia. Regular eye examinations are essential to monitor any changes in your vision.

As for your astigmatism, wearing contact lenses without a toric prescription may not provide optimal vision correction. Toric lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism by having different powers in different meridians of the lens. If you wear regular spherical lenses (which have the same power in all directions), you may experience blurred vision, especially at certain angles. While some individuals with mild astigmatism may find they can manage with standard lenses, it is generally recommended to use toric lenses for better visual clarity and comfort.

Wearing the correct prescription is crucial for maintaining good vision and preventing eye strain. Over time, wearing an incorrect prescription can lead to discomfort, headaches, and may even contribute to further vision problems. If your optometrist or ophthalmologist has recommended toric lenses based on your astigmatism, it is advisable to follow their guidance for the best visual outcome.

In summary, while your myopia may stabilize, it is essential to have regular eye exams to monitor any changes. For your astigmatism, using toric lenses is recommended to ensure clear vision and comfort. If you have concerns about your prescription or the type of lenses you should be using, it is best to consult with your eye care professional for personalized advice. They can provide you with the most accurate information based on your specific eye health and vision needs.

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