Your Vision Test Results: What Do They Really Mean? - Ophthalmology

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Understanding your vision test results can indeed be confusing, especially with the various terms and numbers involved. Let's break down the components of your vision test results and what they mean for your eyesight.

1. Understanding the Measurements:
- Sph (Sphere): This number indicates the degree of nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia). A negative value (e.g., -6.87) indicates myopia. The larger the absolute value of the number, the stronger the prescription needed to correct your vision.

- Cyl (Cylinder): This number indicates the degree of astigmatism, which is caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens. A negative value (e.g., -2.75) indicates the presence of astigmatism.

- Axis: This number (not provided in your results) indicates the orientation of the astigmatism in degrees.

2. Your Current Prescription:
- From your results, you have a sphere measurement of -6.87 and a cylinder measurement of -2.75. This means you have significant myopia and astigmatism. The total refractive error can be calculated using these values, but for practical purposes, your prescription indicates that you will need corrective lenses that address both myopia and astigmatism.

3. Current Eyeglasses:
- You mentioned that your current glasses are prescribed at -4.75. Given that your recent test shows a prescription of -6.87 for myopia, it is likely that your current glasses are not strong enough to correct your vision adequately. It would be advisable to consider getting new glasses with the updated prescription.

4. The 600 Degree Limit:
- The mention of "600 degrees" on your test results likely refers to the maximum limit for your workplace's vision requirements. It seems that the vision technician may have adjusted your results to meet this requirement, especially if your actual prescription is higher than this limit. The notation of -0.8 could refer to a visual acuity measurement, which is a different aspect of vision testing.

5. Visual Acuity:
- Visual acuity is often measured in fractions (e.g., 20/20 vision is considered normal). If your test results indicate a visual acuity of -0.8, this could suggest that your vision is below the standard threshold, which aligns with your reported difficulty in seeing certain measurements during the test.

6. Next Steps:
- Given your concerns and the discrepancies in your results, it would be wise to schedule a follow-up appointment with an eye care professional. They can provide a comprehensive eye exam, confirm your current prescription, and discuss whether you need new glasses. Additionally, they can address any concerns you have about your vision and the implications of your test results.

7. Importance of Accurate Prescription:
- Wearing glasses that do not match your current prescription can lead to eye strain, headaches, and further deterioration of your vision. Therefore, ensuring that you have the correct prescription is crucial for your overall eye health and comfort.

In summary, your recent vision test indicates that you have significant myopia and astigmatism, and your current glasses may not be sufficient for your needs. It is advisable to seek a follow-up examination to clarify your prescription and ensure that you have the appropriate corrective lenses. Don't hesitate to ask your eye care provider any questions you may have during your visit; they are there to help you understand your vision health better.