How to read an eye examination report: understanding the numbers
Oct 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
On an eye examination report, you will typically see the markings R and L, which stand for the right eye and left eye, respectively. The refractive power of each eye is usually listed after these letters. The spherical value indicates the degree of nearsightedness or farsightedness. If there is a minus sign before the number, for example, -2.00 D, it indicates myopia (nearsightedness); the larger the number, the greater the degree of myopia.
In general, the numbers on an eye examination report refer to the degree of myopia or hyperopia, usually expressed in units of D (diopters). The specific analysis is as follows:
On an eye examination report, you will typically see the markings R and L, which represent the right eye and left eye, respectively. The refractive power of each eye is generally listed after these letters. The spherical value indicates the degree of myopia or hyperopia. If there is a minus sign before the number—for example, -2.00 D—it indicates myopia; the larger the number, the more severe the myopia. If there is no minus sign before the number—for example, +1.50 D—it indicates hyperopia.
The degree is usually represented by negative or positive numbers: negative values indicate myopia, while positive values indicate hyperopia. If you have any questions regarding your prescription, it is recommended to consult a doctor for professional advice.
