The ones responsible in giving eyeglasses prescription are opthalmologists or optometrists. In identifying the eyeglasses or lenses that are ideal for a particular vision-impaired individual, these specialists will conduct a number of eye examinations. Following the examinations, figures would be entered by these professionals at the prescription paper.

The following are basic components of an eyeglass prescription:

Cylindrical – or CYL. The values inputted in this part are responsible in fixing astigmatic refractive errors. Refractive powers will either be subtracted or added cylindrically in indicating the CYL.

DV – also known as distance vision. This figure indicates the component of the eyeglasses that will improve the patient’s vision of objects that are far from him/her.

Base – usually left empty. Base signifies the direction of the displacement of the image. Base works with Prism.

Back Vertex Distance – BVD is the length between the front side of the cornea and the back of the eyeglass lenses.

Pupillary Distance – otherwise known as PD. Measured in millimeters (mm), PD calculates the distance between the two pupils. Interpupillary distance or IPD is the other term of PD.

Prism – this is left blank likewise to Base. Figures to be entered in the prism indicates the need to correct imbalances of the eye muscles and related diseases.

Axis – it is responsible in representing the proper angle in degrees of which the lenses are set in the frame. This figure works with the CYL values.

OU – it indicates the status of your left and right eyes (both eyes) or the oculi uterque.

OV – the value of your right eye, or the oculus dexter. Countries like United Kingdom use the abbreviation RE, which then stands for the Right Eye.

You need to have your recent prescription before purchasing the most suitable prescription eyeglasses for you. If figures are not inputted properly, you are more inclined to place yourself in danger.