Why does Optometrist say I cannot wear contacts?

[J94shore]

I went to get my eye exam and the Optometrist says I probably would not be able to wear contacts. He said it had to do with my astigmatism. I had a regular eye exam to be fitted for glasses, but would love to try the contacts. Below is my eyeglass prescription.

  Sphere   Cylinder   Axis       Add      PD
OD +.50         -1.00      135        1.75      28
OS  +.75        -.75         055    1.75     27.5

I have a 30 day money back guarantee with Lenscrafters. I just got my glasses yesterday. I had glasses before and my prescription has changed some, but not much. These new glasses are making my eyes hurt and I cannot read close up with them.
Thanks,
J94shore

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear J94shore,

I would recommend that you try your new glasses for a few days full time to determine whether the prescription is correct.  I would also speak further with your doctor as to why contact lenses were nto recommended. For example, according to the prescription, you have a small distance prescription and presbyopia.  The contact lenses which correct astigmatism might not give you perfect distance vision.  You will require a bifocal contact lens or monovision with contact lenses. Speak further with an eyeMD to determine the best treatment option for you.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California

[JodieJ]

I wouldn't be surprised if you could read the 20/20 line without glasses or contacts.  If you can't adjust to your glasses, I'd recommend that you get your money back from Lenscrafter.  Then I'd suggest that you see a different optometrist--preferably someone with more experience fitting contacts.  There are many options for correcting astigmatism.  

[eyedoc1]

A related discussion, Contact lens related problems was started.

[J94shore]

Thank you so much for your expert advice. I actually did wear them a little longer and went back to Lenscrafters. They are ordering me more lenses(I need 2.00 added instead of the 1.75). My insurance will not allow me to get glasses and contacts. I am going to stick with the glasses for a while.
I have contacted a contact specialist and plan on getting contacts later. He did tell me that I would need the monovision.

I really appreciate your reply.

Thanks again,
J94shore