What type of lens is often indicated for patients with astigmatism?

The appropriate lens type for patients with astigmatism is toric lenses. Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens that results in blurred or distorted vision. Toric lenses are specifically designed to correct this by having different optical powers in different meridians of the lens, accommodating the varying curvature of the eye. This allows for clear vision at various angles, which is essential for individuals with astigmatism.

Spherical lenses provide uniform power across the entire lens and are typically used for myopia or hyperopia but do not account for the irregular curvature associated with astigmatism. Bifocal lenses are designed for individuals who require correction for both distance and near vision, but they do not address the specific needs of astigmatic vision correction. Monovision lenses are used often for presbyopic patients, providing correction for one eye for distance vision and the other for near vision, which again does not target the irregularities of astigmatism. Thus, toric lenses remain the best choice for effectively addressing the visual demands of patients with astigmatism.