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Question
On my RX for glasses, could you please tell me what Spherical, Cylinder, and Axis mean? I think I know what O.D (right) and O.S (left) mean. I have all my prescriptions back to 1988, and the numbers are just all over the board. My recent RX is the same as my RX in 1988, which all the numbers for the RX's in between are much higher. I'm a truckdriver and I have moved around a lot, so I've only had an eye exam from the same Dr. once. Thanks, Paul Smith
Hi Paul,
The numbers correspond to the power in the lenses, based on the Dr's exam.
For example -2.00 - 1.00 X 90 would means as follows:
-2.00 is the nearsighted reading in diopters, -1.00 is the cylinder reading for astigmatism in diopters, and 90 would correspond to the degree or alignment of the astigmatism. 90 degrees would be a straight vertical alignment. Farsighted numbers begin with a "+" sign instead of a "-" sign. Prescriptions can change from year to years depending on the diagnosis and age of the patient.
Hope this helps, let me know if I can help further.
Mike
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Answers by Expert:
Michael J. Wojciak, O.D.
Expertise
I am an Optometrist with 25 yrs experience. I currently practice primary eye care in Joliet and Schaumburg, Illinois. I specialize in all types of contact lenses. Please forward appropriate questions pertaining to eye exams, glasses or contact lenses only. I will always attempt to be as "specific" as I can on my answers. This is often difficult when the questions do not provide enough information or visual presentation is needed. ***I will reject any question involving self-prescribing of contact lenses or involving contact lens measurements/comparisons (such as changing base curves, measurement comparisons between brands etc). Contact lenses are a medical device and need to be properly fit by your Doctor. Also in respect for patient privacy, I will not answer third party questions, unless a parent or guardian is asking a question about their child.*** I appreciate your confidence.
Experience
Education/Credentials:
B.S. Biology/Pre-Professional Studies, University Of Notre Dame, 1982.
B.S.V.S. Visual Science, Illinois College Of Optometry, 1984.
Doctor Of Optometry, Illinois College Of Optometry, 1986. Therapeutic Certification, Illinois College Of Optometry, 1996.
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