What to Do If You Have High Astigmatism

If you’ve been diagnosed with high astigmatism, you might be wondering, “How can I improve my vision clarity?” or “What are the best glasses for my condition?” Astigmatism is a common vision problem, but when it’s severe, it can cause blurred vision, headaches, and eye strain that interfere with daily life.

Let’s explore what high astigmatism is, its causes, and the best solutions to help you see clearly and comfortably.

What Is High Astigmatism?

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina. This results in distorted or blurred vision at all distances.

How Is Astigmatism Measured?

Astigmatism is measured in diopters (D):
🔹 Mild astigmatism: 0.25D to 1.00D
🔹 Moderate astigmatism: 1.00D to 2.00D
🔹 High astigmatism: 2.00D and above

If your astigmatism is 2.00D or higher, you have high astigmatism, which requires specialized lenses or treatments for clear vision.

Symptoms of High Astigmatism

People with high astigmatism may experience:
✅ Blurry or distorted vision at all distances
✅ Eye strain and discomfort after reading or screen use
✅ Headaches from squinting to focus
✅ Double vision or ghosting of images
✅ Glare and halos around lights, especially at night

What Causes High Astigmatism?

High astigmatism can be genetic, but it may also develop due to:
🔹 Keratoconus – A condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape.
🔹 Eye injuries or surgeries – Damage to the cornea can cause irregular curvature.
🔹 Prolonged eye strain – Excessive screen time may not cause astigmatism but can make symptoms worse.

If your astigmatism is suddenly worsening, see an eye doctor to rule out underlying conditions like keratoconus or corneal damage.

Best Eyewear Solutions for High Astigmatism

The right glasses and lenses can significantly improve vision for people with high astigmatism. Here’s what to consider:

1. High-Index Lenses for Thin & Lightweight Glasses

Since high astigmatism prescriptions require stronger lenses, they can be thick and heavy. High-index lenses help by making them thinner and lighter, reducing bulk and improving comfort.

🔹 1.67 or 1.74 high-index lenses are best for strong prescriptions.
🔹 Anti-reflective (AR) coating reduces glare and improves clarity.
🔹 If your glasses feel heavy, opt for lighter frame materials like titanium.

2. Asian Fit Frames for Better Comfort

Many people with high astigmatism need glasses that sit properly aligned on their face. If standard frames slide down your nose, it can cause misalignment, leading to blurry vision.

🔹 Asian fit frames offer a higher nose bridge and snugger fit to keep lenses in the correct position.
🔹 Look for adjustable nose pads to prevent slippage.
🔹 Smaller frames can help keep lens thickness minimal.

3. Toric Contact Lenses for Astigmatism

If you prefer contact lenses, standard spherical lenses won’t work for high astigmatism. Instead, toric lenses are specially designed to correct irregular corneal curvature.

🔹 Soft toric lenses – Comfortable but may rotate, affecting vision clarity.
🔹 Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses – Provide sharper vision and better stability for high astigmatism.
🔹 Hybrid lenses – Combine the comfort of soft lenses with the sharp focus of RGP lenses.

4. Prescription Sunglasses for Outdoor Clarity

High astigmatism can make glare and bright light uncomfortable. Prescription sunglasses with:
🔹 Polarized lenses – Reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water and roads.
🔹 UV protection – Shields eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.
🔹 Asian fit frames – Prevent slippage for better vision stability outdoors.

Other Treatment Options for High Astigmatism

For those looking for alternatives beyond glasses and contacts, several treatment options exist:

1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses

Ortho-K lenses are rigid gas-permeable lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. They provide clear vision during the day without glasses or contacts.

🔹 Best for mild to moderate astigmatism
🔹 Effects last 1–2 days, so they must be worn regularly
🔹 Not a permanent solution but can reduce dependence on glasses

2. LASIK or SMILE Surgery for Permanent Correction

Laser eye surgery, such as LASIK or SMILE, can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism. However, it may not be suitable for very high astigmatism or thin corneas.

🔹 LASIK – A laser reshapes the cornea to correct vision.
🔹 SMILE – A less-invasive procedure that removes a small corneal layer.
🔹 PRK – An alternative for those with thin corneas who aren’t LASIK candidates.

Always consult an eye specialist before considering surgery to determine if you're a good candidate.

Can High Astigmatism Get Worse Over Time?

Yes, high astigmatism can worsen due to aging, eye strain, or conditions like keratoconus. To prevent further deterioration:
✅ Get annual eye exams to monitor changes.
✅ Wear updated prescription lenses—don’t delay replacing outdated glasses.
✅ Take breaks from screens to reduce strain.
✅ Use proper lighting when reading or working.

Final Thoughts: Managing High Astigmatism for Clearer Vision

Having high astigmatism doesn’t mean you have to struggle with blurry vision. The right glasses, contact lenses, and treatments can help you see clearly and reduce discomfort.

👓 Choose high-index lenses, Asian fit frames, and toric contacts to enhance your visual clarity. Regular eye checkups and proper eyewear care will ensure you maintain the best possible vision for years to come!