Understanding the Term ‘Toric’
- BY Dr. Steven Liem
- IN Lenses
When it comes to discussing eyewear and vision correction, certain terms may seem unfamiliar if you’re not a seasoned expert. One of these terms is ‘Toric.’ It’s a term that often pops up when discussing astigmatism, and it’s vital to understand its meaning when navigating vision correction choices. This post aims to demystify the term ‘Toric’ and explain its relevance to eyewear.
The Basics: What Does ‘Toric’ Mean?
Simply put, ‘Toric’ refers to a type of lens specifically designed to correct astigmatism, a common vision condition that results in blurred or distorted vision. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea, which should ideally be spherical, is shaped more like a football. This irregular shape refracts light unequally in different directions, leading to vision distortion.
Toric lenses are made to compensate for this distortion. Unlike regular spherical lenses that have the same power throughout, Toric lenses have different optical power and focal length in two orientations perpendicular to each other. This design allows the lens to correct the uneven refraction caused by astigmatism, and thus improve vision clarity.
Selecting the Right Toric Lens
Not every astigmatism case is the same, and as such, Toric lenses are not one-size-fits-all. When selecting a Toric lens, your optometrist will measure both the lens power needed to correct your astigmatism and the orientation needed for the corrective lens to align with the distortion in your eye. These two parameters, known as cylinder (CYL) and axis respectively, are often included in your eyewear prescription alongside the spherical (SPH) power needed to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness.
It’s important to acknowledge that getting the right Toric lens involves precise measurements and fitting. Therefore, it’s recommended to always consult with an eye care professional when dealing with astigmatism and Toric lenses.
Toric Lenses: Not Just for Eyeglasses
While Toric lenses are often associated with eyeglasses, they’re also used in contact lenses to correct astigmatism. Much like Toric eyeglass lenses, Toric contact lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to correct the irregular shape of the cornea. However, fitting Toric contact lenses can be more complex since they need to remain in a stable position on the eye to provide clear vision.
Whether in the form of eyeglasses or contact lenses, Toric lenses play a crucial role in correcting astigmatism and providing clear vision. If you’ve been diagnosed with astigmatism or suspect you might have it, it’s worth discussing the option of Toric a with your eye care professional. Remember, your vision is precious. Understanding your condition and the options available to you is a significant step towards achieving clearer, healthier vision. So, next time you see the term ‘Toric,’ you’ll be well-versed in its meaning and its importance in correcting astigmatism.
