What type of lenses are typically prescribed for astigmatism?

Toric lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism, a common refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens in the eye. Unlike standard spherical lenses, which have the same curvature in all directions, toric lenses have different curvatures in different meridians of the lens. This unique design allows them to compensate for the uneven curvature of the cornea and provide clear vision at various distances.

Astigmatism can lead to blurred or distorted vision, and toric lenses effectively address this issue by aligning with the specific axis of the astigmatism. They help the light focus on the retina properly, resulting in clearer vision for individuals with this condition. Other types of lenses, such as single vision, bifocal, or progressive lenses, do not address the specific curvature needed to correct astigmatism. These other lenses may be suitable for different refractive errors or vision needs but do not provide the specialized correction that toric lenses offer for astigmatism.