Can Glasses Correct Astigmatism? What to Know Before You Buy
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by EydologyJ
6 min reading time
Learn how glasses correct astigmatism, what CYL and AXIS mean, and how to choose the right prescription lenses for clear, comfortable everyday vision.
Yes, prescription glasses can correct astigmatism when the lenses are made with the correct CYL and AXIS values. You don't need a special type of frame. Instead, your prescription lenses are customized to provide the vision correction your eyes need.
If you have astigmatism and are planning to order glasses online, understanding your prescription is the most important step. This guide explains how glasses correct astigmatism, how to choose the right lens type, and which optional lens features may work for your everyday needs.
What Are Astigmatism Glasses?
Astigmatism glasses are regular prescription glasses with lenses made to correct astigmatism. There is no special frame that you have to wear just because you have astigmatism.
You can choose different frame styles based on your preferred look and fit. The important part is that the lenses are made according to your prescription, including the CYL and AXIS values if they are listed.
In other words, the frame determines the style and fit, while the prescription lenses provide the vision correction.
Can Glasses Correct Astigmatism?
Yes. Prescription glasses can correct the blurry or distorted vision caused by astigmatism. Astigmatism happens when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, which can make light focus unevenly on the retina.
The right prescription lenses compensate for this uneven focusing and can make everyday vision clearer and more comfortable.
Glasses correct astigmatism while you wear them, but they do not permanently change the shape of your eye. If you take them off, the blurry or distorted vision may return.
So, glasses can effectively correct the vision effects of astigmatism, but they do not cure astigmatism itself.
How Do Glasses Correct Astigmatism?
The two prescription values most important for astigmatism correction are CYL (Cylinder) and AXIS.
CYL (Cylinder) shows how much astigmatism correction is needed.
AXIS shows the direction of that correction and is measured from 1 to 180 degrees.
These values work together to position the correction correctly in the lens.
For example, a prescription may show:
OD: -2.00 -0.75 × 130
-2.00 → SPH (Sphere), for nearsightedness or farsightedness
-0.75→ CYL (Cylinder), for astigmatism correction
130→ AXIS, the direction of the astigmatism correction
If your prescription includes CYL and AXIS, enter these values exactly as shown when ordering your glasses. Don't guess or add values that aren't on your prescription.
If your prescription doesn't list CYL or AXIS, you may not need astigmatism correction. Follow the prescription provided by your eye doctor.
What Glasses Are Best for Astigmatism?
There isn't one specific frame style that is best for everyone with astigmatism. The right choice depends on your prescription, vision needs, and how you plan to use your glasses.
You can choose from different frame styles and lens types. Two common lens options are Single Vision and Progressive lenses.
Single Vision Glasses
Single Vision lenses are designed to correct vision at one main viewing distance.
They may be a good choice if you mainly need:
(1)Distance vision correction
(2)Near vision correction
For example, you may use Single Vision lenses mainly for seeing things clearly while driving or for reading and other close-up tasks.
Progressive Glasses
Progressive lenses provide vision correction at multiple distances in one pair of glasses.
They may be suitable if you need help seeing clearly:
(1)Far away
(2)At an intermediate distance, such as a computer screen
(3)Up close, such as when reading
(4)Progressive lenses are often used by people who also have presbyopia.
The important thing is that both Single Vision and Progressive lenses can be made according to an astigmatism prescription. Having astigmatism doesn't mean you need a particular lens type.
Which Lens Options Can You Choose for Astigmatism?
Once your prescription is entered correctly, you can choose optional lens features based on your daily routine.
These features don't correct astigmatism themselves. Your prescription, including the CYL and AXIS values, provides the astigmatism correction. Lens features simply add extra benefits for different situations.
Lens Option
What It Adds
Photochromic
Darkens outdoors in response to UV/light and becomes clearer indoors
Blue Light
Designed for people who want blue-light blocking
Anti-Reflective
Helps reduce distracting glare and reflections
High Index
Can help make lenses thinner for higher prescriptions.
For example, photochromic lenses can be convenient if you move between indoor and outdoor environments during the day. Anti-reflective coating may be useful if reflections bother you when using digital screens or driving at night.
High-index lenses can be helpful for stronger prescriptions because they can make the lenses thinner. They are not required simply because you have astigmatism.
Once you know your prescription, you can choose the lens type and optional features that fit your everyday needs.
How to Order Glasses for Astigmatism
If you're ordering prescription glasses online, the process is simple:
1.Check your prescription. Make sure you have the current SPH, CYL, and AXIS values provided by your eye doctor.
2.Choose your frame. You don't need a special frame for astigmatism. Choose a style and size that fit comfortably.
3.Select your lens type. Choose Single Vision or Progressive based on your vision needs.
4.Enter your prescription carefully. If CYL and AXIS are listed, enter them exactly as prescribed.
5.Add optional lens features. Choose features such as Photochromic, Blue Light, Anti-Reflective, or High Index based on your preferences and prescription.
The most important part is making sure your prescription information is entered correctly. If you're unsure about any value, check your prescription or ask your eye-care professional before placing your order.
FAQ
Do Glasses Help Astigmatism?
Yes. Prescription glasses can correct the vision effects of astigmatism and help you see more clearly while you wear them.
Do You Need Glasses If You Have Astigmatism?
It depends on the amount of astigmatism and how much it affects your vision. An eye exam and prescription can help determine whether glasses are needed.
Can Astigmatism Go Away With Glasses?
No. Glasses can correct your vision while you wear them, but they don't permanently remove the underlying astigmatism.
