Difference between these prescriptions

[sab432]

Hi,

I got my eyes checked by two opticians. All they did was a machine test by putting my chin on a machine. Here is the final reading of both these prescriptions.

READING 1
Right eye
S= -0.50
C= -1.25
A= 7

Left eye

S= -0.25
C= -1.25
A= 158

Reading 2
Right eye
S=-0.50
C=-1.50
A= 3



Left eye
S= -0.25
C= -1.25
A= 160

So there is a slight difference in the axis values and Cylindrical values of two prescriptions.

I need to know if this difference is significant. Can I follow any one of them or do I need to get my eyes checked by some expert doctor

[Doreen Fazio, M.D.]

The differences between the two prescriptions are slight, and may not be noticeable to you.  However, you need to have a subjective refraction, where the optometrist or ophthalmologist asks you "which is better, lens one or lens two"?  This way the objective prescription can be refined and thus you are given the prescription which provides the sharpest vision.  

[TurtleJoe]

If I might add, opticians, ophthalmologists, surgeons, veterinarians, etc. all have spent a different amount of time training for the level of service that they provide. You always get to choose what you want to pay for what you want to receive.

[TurtleJoe]

The most important variable in an eye exam is you. It is no easy task to provide yourself as a dedicated patient to report with clarity your response to the question is it better for lens 1 or 2; way 1 or way 2. Take your time, roll your eyes, blink a few times if fluid is present such as tears. Your responses are your primary responsibility to receive a proper Rx. Then if you are getting the bums rush, demand time for you to respond correctly.