How to Choose the Right Contact Lens Prescription for Clear Vision?

I have a flash of light and would like to ask about the prescription for contact lenses?

Hello Dr.
Chen,
I would like to inquire about the prescription for my contact lenses.
My right eye prescription is -5.25 with a -0.50 astigmatism.
When I visited the optical store, they provided me with -4.75 lenses without adding the astigmatism correction, but I found it difficult to read the newspaper.
After I reported this to them, they gave me a trial pair of -5.00 contact lenses.
However, after wearing them for a while, I still felt that my vision was blurry.

Could you please advise me on what prescription I should use for my contact lenses to avoid affecting my reading? Additionally, the optical store suggested that I use -0.75 for astigmatism correction, stating that -0.50 would need to be custom ordered.
Would this not lead to any adverse effects?
Thank you for your response.

Miss Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/27

Dr. Chen Anping reply Ophthalmology

1.
To read the newspaper, you need to reduce your prescription by 200 degrees, so your prescription should be 325 degrees, which means you will need two pairs of glasses.
2.
If you only have 50 degrees of astigmatism, it is considered physiological astigmatism and does not require attention.
3.
Contact lenses only have a single prescription and are suitable for hyperopia but not for reading at close distances.

Reply Date: 2006/07/27

More Info

Choosing the right prescription for contact lenses is crucial for achieving clear vision and comfort. Based on your situation, it seems you are experiencing difficulties with your current contact lens prescription, particularly with reading and clarity. Here are some key considerations and recommendations to help you select the appropriate contact lens prescription.

Understanding Your Prescription
1. Base Prescription: Your right eye prescription is -5.25 with +0.50 for astigmatism. This means you need a correction for both myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. The base prescription should ideally include both components to ensure clear vision.

2. Trial Lenses: It’s common for opticians to provide trial lenses to help you find the right fit. If you were given a -4.75 lens without the astigmatism correction, it’s understandable that you would struggle with clarity, especially for reading. The reduction in power may not adequately correct your vision.

3. Astigmatism Correction: The astigmatism correction (the cylinder value) is essential for clear vision. If your optician suggested a +0.75 for astigmatism, it’s important to ensure that this is included in your contact lens prescription. If they are unable to provide a lens with this correction readily, it may be worth considering ordering the correct lenses.

Recommendations for Clear Vision
1. Consultation with an Eye Care Professional: It’s advisable to revisit your eye care provider for a comprehensive eye exam. They can assess your current vision with the trial lenses and determine if adjustments are necessary. They may also evaluate if your astigmatism is being adequately corrected.

2. Correct Lens Power: If you find that -5.00 lenses provide better clarity than -4.75, it may be worth trying a -5.25 lens with the appropriate astigmatism correction. The goal is to ensure that both distance and near vision are clear.

3. Consider Different Lens Types: If you continue to experience issues, you might want to explore different types of contact lenses. Some lenses are designed specifically for astigmatism (toric lenses) and may provide better stability and clarity. Additionally, multifocal lenses could be an option if you need correction for both distance and near vision.

4. Reading Glasses: If you find that your contact lenses do not provide adequate near vision, you might consider using reading glasses over your contact lenses. This can be a practical solution while you adjust to your contact lens prescription.

5. Follow-Up: After receiving new lenses, it’s important to have a follow-up appointment to ensure that your vision is clear and that the lenses are comfortable. If you experience any discomfort or persistent blurriness, inform your eye care provider immediately.

Potential Issues with Incorrect Prescription
Using an incorrect prescription can lead to several issues, including:
- Eye Strain: Inadequate correction can cause your eyes to work harder, leading to fatigue and discomfort.

- Headaches: Prolonged use of an incorrect prescription can result in headaches due to eye strain.

- Visual Disturbances: Blurriness, double vision, or ghosting can occur if the astigmatism is not properly corrected.

Conclusion
In summary, selecting the right contact lens prescription involves ensuring that both your myopia and astigmatism are adequately corrected. It’s essential to work closely with your eye care provider to find the best solution for your vision needs. If you continue to experience difficulties, don’t hesitate to seek further evaluations and adjustments to your prescription. Your comfort and clarity of vision are paramount, and with the right approach, you can achieve both.

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