Eye health resources

Learn the different types of astigmatism

Q: Can I have more than one type of astigmatism?

Astigmatism can be described in different ways (see above about regular vs. irregular astigmatism; with-the-rule, against the rule, oblique; how it affects your vision). For example, you can have a regular, with-the-rule, or simple myopia astigmatism. On top of that, at an eye exam, each eye is measured separately, and it’s common for the type or amount of astigmatism to be different in each. Your eye doctor can explain what this means for your vision and correction options.

Q: Do all types of astigmatism require glasses or contacts?

Very mild astigmatism might not require any vision correction if it does not interfere with your daily life. If symptoms like blurry vision, eye strain, or headaches occur, an eye doctor may recommend glasses or contact lenses. Other treatment options may be considered in specific cases.

Q: What does astigmatism look like?

People with astigmatism experience blurry or distorted vision at all distances, and often have trouble seeing when there are bright lights in a dark environment, like driving at night. Astigmatism is different from nearsightedness and farsightedness because it affects vision at all distances rather than only for things that are near or far.

Q: Can my astigmatism type change over time?

Yes, the shape of your cornea or lens can change as you age, which means your astigmatism can shift or worsen over time. This is why attending regular, comprehensive eye exams is crucial for maintaining clear vision.

Q: Can astigmatism be corrected with regular contact lenses?

Regular contact lenses correct nearsightedness or farsightedness and may work for some people with mild astigmatism. However, they often do not provide clear or consistent vision for higher levels of astigmatism. Toric contact lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism and are commonly recommended. Your eye doctor can help determine the best option for you.

Q: How do I know if I have astigmatism?

The only way to know for sure is through a comprehensive eye exam. Symptoms like blurry vision at all distances, headaches, and eye strain can indicate astigmatism, but your eye doctor can perform tests to give you a definitive diagnosis. In the meantime, you can take our online astigmatism test to find out if you have symptoms of astigmatism.

Q: Is it harder to get used to contact lenses for astigmatism?

While toric lenses are uniquely designed to help keep them stable on your eye, most people adjust to them just as easily as regular contacts. Your eye doctor will ensure a proper fit, and brands like ACUVUE offer contact lenses made with advanced technologies for a comfortable and stable wearing experience.

Medically reviewed on April 28, 2026

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Published on August 30, 2024; Updated on July 13, 2026

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5 minute read time

Key takeaways

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism causes, symptoms, & treatments

Regular vs. irregular astigmatism

Regular astigmatism

Irregular astigmatism

Why your astigmatism types matters

Take our quick online astigmatism test

Go to test

The three types of regular astigmatism

With-the-rule astigmatism

Against-the-rule astigmatism

Oblique astigmatism

Why the type of regular astigmatism matters

Interested in contact lenses for astigmatism?

Find an eye doctor

The effect of astigmatism on eyesight

Why choose ACUVUE contact lenses for astigmatism?

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What’s next?

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Can I have more than one type of astigmatism?

Do all types of astigmatism require glasses or contacts?

What does astigmatism look like?

Can my astigmatism type change over time?

Can astigmatism be corrected with regular contact lenses?

About toric contacts

How do I know if I have astigmatism?

Take online astigmatism test

Is it harder to get used to contact lenses for astigmatism?

Learn the different types of astigmatism

Key takeaways

What is astigmatism?