Understanding Your Eyeglass Prescription: A Guide by OptoDoc

Have you ever looked at your eyeglass prescription and wondered what all those numbers and terms mean? You’re not alone. Eyeglass prescriptions can seem confusing, but understanding them is crucial for ensuring you get the right lenses for your vision needs. At OptoDoc, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decode your eyeglass prescription.

The Basics of an Eyeglass Prescription

Your eyeglass prescription contains specific details about the lenses needed to correct your vision. Here’s a breakdown of the most common terms and numbers you’ll find:

1. OD and OS

OD (Oculus Dexter) refers to your right eye, and OS (Oculus Sinister) refers to your left eye. Sometimes, you’ll also see OU (Oculus Uterque), which refers to both eyes.

2. SPH (Sphere)

The SPH value indicates the lens power required to correct nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia). A negative number indicates myopia, while a positive number indicates hyperopia. The number is measured in diopters (D).

3. CYL (Cylinder)

The CYL value indicates the lens power needed to correct astigmatism. If there’s no astigmatism, this section may be blank. Like SPH, CYL is also measured in diopters and can be either positive or negative.

4. Axis

The axis value specifies the orientation of astigmatism correction. It’s a number between 1 and 180 degrees that indicates the direction in which the cylindrical power should be applied to correct astigmatism.

5. ADD

The ADD value is used for bifocal or progressive lenses and indicates the additional magnifying power needed for reading or close-up work. This value is always positive and measured in diopters.

6. Prism

The prism value is used to correct eye alignment issues. It’s measured in prism diopters and indicates the amount of prismatic power needed. The direction is specified as base up, base down, base in, or base out.

How OptoDoc Helps You Understand Your Prescription

At OptoDoc, we ensure that our patients fully understand their eyeglass prescriptions. Our optometrists take the time to explain each part of your prescription and how it relates to your vision needs. We believe that informed patients make better decisions about their eye care.

Comprehensive Eye Exams

Our comprehensive eye exams are designed to provide accurate and detailed prescriptions. Using state-of-the-art equipment, we assess your vision and eye health thoroughly, ensuring you receive the best possible care.

Personalized Consultations

After your eye exam, our optometrists will discuss your prescription with you in detail. We explain what each term and number means and how it affects your vision. We also offer personalized advice on the best lenses and frames to suit your lifestyle and preferences.

Advanced Lens Options

OptoDoc offers a wide range of advanced lens options to meet your specific needs. Whether you need single vision lenses, bifocals, or progressive lenses, we have the right solution for you. Our expert team will help you choose the best lenses based on your prescription and lifestyle requirements.

Visit OptoDoc for Your Eye Care Needs

Understanding your eyeglass prescription is the first step towards better vision. At OptoDoc, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality eye care and ensuring you have all the information you need. Schedule an appointment with us today for a comprehensive eye exam and personalized consultation.

Book your eye exam now!

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us. Your vision is our priority at OptoDoc!