Understanding your glasses prescription can feel like reading a secret code, but it’s actually quite simple once you know what each term means. This guide will break it all down for you in plain and simple language. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to read your prescription and what each number represents.
What Do the Numbers on Your Glasses Prescription Mean?
Your prescription contains several abbreviations and numbers that indicate the type and strength of correction your eyes need. Here’s what they mean:
1. SPH (Sphere) – Your Lens Power
- The SPH value determines the strength of the lens you need.
- If the number has a minus sign (-), you are nearsighted (you see better up close).
- If the number has a plus sign (+), you are farsighted (you see better far away).
- The value is measured in diopters (D).
2. CYL (Cylinder) – Astigmatism Correction
- This value is only present if you have astigmatism, a condition where the cornea isn’t perfectly round.
- If this section is blank, you don’t have astigmatism.
- The higher the number, the stronger the correction.
3. AXIS – Astigmatism Angle
- The AXIS value is a number between 0 and 180 degrees.
- It tells the lab where to place the astigmatism correction.
4. ADD (Add Power) – For Multifocal Lenses
- ADD applies to people needing reading glasses or bifocals.
- It indicates the extra power needed for near vision.
5. PD (Pupillary Distance) – Eye Alignment
- PD is the distance between the centers of your pupils.
- It ensures your lenses align correctly for clear vision.
6. OD & OS – Right Eye vs Left Eye
7. Prism – Eye Alignment Issues
- Some prescriptions include a prism correction to help people with double vision.
- The direction of the prism is indicated as BU (Base Up), BD (Base Down), BI (Base In), or BO (Base Out).
8. NV & DV – Near & Distance Vision
- NV (Near Vision): Used for reading glasses.
- DV (Distance Vision): Used for regular eyeglasses.
FAQs: Common Questions About Glasses Prescriptions
Can I Use My Glasses Prescription for Contact Lenses?
No. Glasses and contact lens prescriptions are different. Contact lenses require additional measurements like base curve and diameter to ensure a proper fit on your eye.
How Do I Know If I Have Astigmatism?
If your prescription has CYL and AXIS values, you have astigmatism. These values indicate the degree and angle of correction needed.
What Does a Negative (-) or Positive (+) SPH Mean?
- Negative (-) SPH = You are nearsighted (struggle to see far objects clearly).
- Positive (+) SPH = You are farsighted (struggle to see close objects clearly).
What Is Pupillary Distance (PD), and Why Is It Important?
PD is the distance between your pupils, measured in millimeters (mm). It ensures that the optical center of your lenses aligns with your eyes for clear vision.
How Do I Order Glasses Online Using My Prescription?
Once you have your prescription, you can easily order glasses online from Glassmith.pk. Just enter your prescription details, choose your frame, and place your order!
Final Thoughts
Reading your glasses prescription doesn’t have to be confusing! Once you understand the SPH, CYL, AXIS, and other key terms, you can easily interpret your prescription and order the right glasses.
Need help finding the perfect pair of glasses? Visit Glassmith.pk for expert guidance and a great selection of eyewear!