Over half of the United States population needs prescription eyeglasses, making vision-correcting accessories a popular commodity. Although millions need glasses, many don't know what their prescription actually means. Learn more about prescription lenses, including how they're determined and what their symbols mean, in the article below. 

How Is Vision Tested?

A person's visual ability is initially measured by a visual acuity test, which is administered by a licensed eye doctor. This test determines whether you're nearsighted or farsighted and diagnoses you with myopia or hyperopia, respectfully. The purpose of this test is to solely determine the sharpness and clarity of your sight at certain distances. 

However, the rest of your vision is also tested in terms of coordination, depth perception, peripheral awareness, focus, and color blindness. You'll be asked to read a list of letters that gets smaller and smaller, using both eyes and then each eye individually. You're also tested on explaining the visual appearance of a capital "E" for a second test.

What Do The Vision Test Results Mean?

If a doctor determines you need prescription eyeglasses after a vision test, they'll give you a prescription with specific symbols on it. The abbreviation "OS" indicates the left eye, while the abbreviation "OD" refers to the right eye. 

Each abbreviation is followed by a number, and the further this number is from zero, the stronger prescription you need. A plus sign indicates you have hyperopia, while a minus sign stands for myopia.

If you need prescription eyeglasses, South Tulsa Optical is a corrective lens store in Tulsa, OK, that can help you find the pair you're looking for. They can fill most prescriptions same-day, meaning most patients won't have to wait several weeks to receive their glasses. They can also adjust, fit, and repair glasses as needed. Call (918) 494-0351 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to see their designer eyewear options.