Everything you need to know about astigmatism, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and how contact lenses can correct it.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the front surface of the eye (cornea) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular curve.
Instead of being round like a basketball, it’s shaped more like a football — causing light to focus unevenly on the retina.
This leads to blurry, distorted, or fluctuating vision at both near and far distances.
Astigmatism is extremely common. Most people have at least a mild form, and many don’t know it until they get a detailed eye exam.
Astigmatism Symptoms
Astigmatism affects everyone differently. Some people experience only slight blur, while others have noticeable distortion in everyday activities.
Common symptoms include:
- Blurred or distorted vision at any distance
- Trouble focusing on fine detail
- Eye strain or fatigue
- Headaches (especially after reading or screen use)
- Difficulty driving at night
- Squinting to see more clearly
- Fluctuating clarity (vision seems to “shift”)
If you notice these regularly, an eye exam is recommended.
What Causes Astigmatism?
Astigmatism happens when the cornea or lens has two different curves instead of one smooth curve.
Common causes:
1. Genetics
Most astigmatism is inherited and present from childhood.
2. Eye shape development
As your eyes grow, curvature can change.
3. Eye trauma or surgery
Injuries can alter the cornea.
4. Keratoconus
A progressive thinning of the cornea that leads to irregular astigmatism.
5. Natural aging
The internal lens may change shape over time.
Astigmatism is not caused by reading in the dark, sitting close to screens, or eye strain — these are myths.
Types of Astigmatism
1. Corneal Astigmatism
The cornea has mismatched curves.
This is the most common type.
2. Lenticular Astigmatism
The lens inside the eye has uneven curvature.
Often age-related.
By Orientation (Axis)
Astigmatism is also classified by axis — the angle of irregular curvature.
With-the-Rule Astigmatism
The eye is steeper vertically (common in younger people).
Against-the-Rule Astigmatism
The eye is steeper horizontally (more common as people age).
Oblique Astigmatism
The steepest curve is at a diagonal angle.
These measurements are important when choosing the correct toric contact lens.
How Astigmatism Is Diagnosed
A comprehensive eye exam includes:
Refraction Test
Determines your prescription.
Keratometry / Topography
Maps the curvature of the cornea.
Visual Acuity Test
Checks clarity at multiple distances.
Your prescription will include a Cylinder (CYL) and Axis value — these indicate astigmatism and how it must be corrected.
Can Contact Lenses Correct Astigmatism?
Yes — astigmatism can be corrected using special contact lenses called toric lenses.
Toric lenses contain different powers in different meridians to match your corneal curvature. They also include stabilization features so the lens stays in the correct orientation.
What Are Toric Contact Lenses?
Toric lenses are custom-shaped to correct uneven focusing. Unlike spherical lenses (used for nearsightedness/farsightedness), toric lenses must remain stable and oriented correctly.
Key features of toric lenses:
- Multiple curvature zones
- Weighted stabilization (to prevent rotation)
- Axis alignment marks
- Custom fit to your CYL & AXIS
When properly fitted, toric lenses offer clear, consistent vision at all distances.
Types of Toric Lenses for Astigmatism
1. Daily Disposable Toric Lenses
✔ Best for comfort
✔ Best for dry eyes
✔ Best for allergy sufferers
✔ No cleaning required
Examples:
Acuvue Oasys 1-Day Toric, Precision1 Toric, Clariti 1-Day, MyDay Toric
2. Monthly Toric Lenses
✔ Most affordable long-term
✔ Durable
✔ High oxygen options
Examples:
Biofinity Toric, Air Optix for Astigmatism, Ultra for Astigmatism, Acuvue Vita for Astigmatism
3. Extended-Wear Toric Lenses
(Some approved for sleeping — not generally recommended.)
Talk to your eye care professional before using.
How Toric Lenses Stay Stable
Astigmatism requires precise rotational stability, otherwise vision fluctuates when the lens rotates.
Manufacturers use technologies such as:
- Thin-zone design
- Prism ballast
- Lateral pressure zones
- Precision edge sculpting
- Blink stabilization
Each brand handles stability differently — which is why some people see better with certain toric lenses than others.
Astigmatism Prescription Explained
A full astigmatism prescription includes:
- Sphere (SPH) – near/far correction
- Cylinder (CYL) – intensity of astigmatism
- Axis – orientation of the curvature
- Base Curve / Diameter – lens fitting
- Brand – required for contacts
If, for example your lens prescription reads:
-2.00 / -1.25 × 180
Then this means in detail:
Nearsighted: –2.00
Astigmatism strength: –1.25
Orientation: 180 degrees
Best Contact Lenses for Astigmatism
Different lenses work better for different eyes.
Best for Dry Eyes:
Acuvue Oasys 1-Day Toric
Biofinity Toric
Best Vision Stability:
Precision1 for Astigmatism
MyDay Toric
Best Budget Choice:
Clariti 1-Day Toric
Air Optix for Astigmatism
Best for All-Day Comfort:
Acuvue Oasys 1-Day Toric
Ultra for Astigmatism
Astigmatism vs. Other Vision Problems
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Clear up close, blurry far away.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Clear far away, blurry up close.
Astigmatism
Distortion or blur at all distances.
Astigmatism often exists alongside myopia or hyperopia — this is normal.
Astigmatism in Children
Children may not notice blurred vision.
Signs include:
- Squinting
- Getting close to screens
- Head tilting
- Eye rubbing
- Struggling with reading
Early correction can improve comfort, learning, and sports performance.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse?
Yes, but usually slowly.
Astigmatism can increase due to:
- Eye growth (childhood → adulthood)
- Eye rubbing (especially allergies)
- Keratoconus
- Natural aging
Regular eye exams help track changes.
Treatment Options for Astigmatism
1. Toric Contact Lenses
Most popular and convenient option.
2. Eyeglasses
Simple and effective.
3. LASIK / PRK
Good candidates can have long-term correction.
4. Ortho-K (overnight lenses)
Less common for astigmatism, but available for certain prescriptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is astigmatism permanent?
Yes, but the level can change over time.
Can astigmatism be cured naturally?
No — exercises and supplements do not cure astigmatism.
Do I need toric lenses?
If your prescription includes Cylinder (CYL) and Axis, then yes.
Why do my toric lenses rotate?
Incorrect fit, dryness, or blinking pattern. A different brand may work better.
Conclusion
Astigmatism is extremely common and highly treatable. With modern toric lens technology, most people can enjoy clear, stable, comfortable vision all day.
This guide gives you the foundation you need — now explore our reviews, comparisons, and buying guides to find the best toric lenses for your eyes.