Deciphering the Meaning of 20/100 Vision
- BY Dr. Steven Liem
- IN Education
When it comes to understanding eye health, terms like 20/20 vision are commonly tossed around. But what do these numbers actually mean, and what does it mean if you have 20/100 vision? In this article, we’ll demystify these terms and explain how they relate to your vision health.
Understanding Eye Chart Numbers
Eye doctors use a standard eye prescription method to assess your visual acuity. The term ’20/20′ is a measure of normal visual acuity which means you can see clearly at 20 feet what should normally be seen at that distance. Now, if you’re told you have 20/100 vision, it means that you must be as close as 20 feet to see what a person with normal vision can see at 100 feet.
Implications of 20/100 Vision
Having 20/100 vision doesn’t mean you’re blind, but it does suggest your vision is significantly impaired. You may struggle with tasks like reading, driving, or recognizing faces from a distance. It’s important to note that this measure only speaks to your distance vision. It doesn’t provide information about your near vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, or color recognition abilities.
Correcting 20/100 Vision
Thankfully, having 20/100 vision isn’t a life sentence. Several solutions can help correct or manage this level of visual impairment. Here are a few options:
- Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses: These are the most common solutions for improving vision. They correct the way light enters your eye, allowing you to see more clearly.
- Reading Glasses: For those who struggle with near vision, over-the-counter reading glasses can be a helpful solution.
- Refractive Surgery: Procedures like LASIK can reshape your cornea to correct your vision.
Keeping an Eye on Vision Health
Regular eye check-ups are key to maintaining good vision health, especially if you have a vision impairment. During an exam, your optometrist will not only update your prescription if needed but also check for signs of eye diseases that could further affect your vision.
At Zenni, we’re dedicated to helping you understand your eye health and find the perfect eyewear to fit your needs. Whether you’re looking for stylish frames for your prescription glasses or need help understanding your eye prescription, our team is here to assist you every step of the way. Remember, understanding your vision is the first step to managing and improving it, and we are here to help guide you on that journey.
