Most people are familiar with the idea of visual acuity, but the specifics are less widely understood. Here is an explanation of what visual acuity ratings mean and suggestions for how you can correct your vision.
What Do Visual Acuity Ratings Mean?
Visual acuity refers to the clarity of vision. Eye doctors use a Snellen chart to determine patients’ visual acuity. The patient stands 20 feet away from the chart and read lines of varying sizes. The test is administered for each eye individually. The actual visual acuity rating is in the form of the fraction. The numerator or top number refers to the distance the patient stands from the chart. The denominator or bottom number indicates the distance at which an individual with normal vision could read a particular line. So to have 20/20 vision, for example, means you normal vision. If your vision is 20/30, this means a person could read the line you are reading from 20 feet from 30 feet.
How Can You Improve Your Visual Acuity?
There are several options available for people who want to improve their visual acuity. Traditionally, people have relied on contacts or glasses to correct their vision. However, laser eye surgery is becoming increasing popular. LASIK eye surgery, for example, is a great way to improve your visual acuity. LASIK uses an individually tailored system to correct your vision. It’s a convenient procedure that generally only requires one appointment.
If you have further questions about what visual acuity ratings mean and how you can improve yours, call Boston Laser at (617) 566-0062. Our expert eye doctors are some of the most experienced LASIK surgeons in Boston. If you are looking for ways to improve your visual acuity, contact us now.
