Huseman Eye Care

Valley West Office

(515) 224-9681

Merle Hay Office

(515) 278-1653

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  • How to Read Prescriptions

How to Read Prescriptions

  • Created in Eyeglasses, Eyeglass Lenses

Eyeglass prescriptions

Vision that is 20/20 describes a normal level of clarity and sharpness in your vision. This is called visual acuity. This measurement offers a way to compare the quality of your vision to a professional standard. Using this tool helps your eye care provider to accurately gauge whether you need corrective lenses and to diagnose eye conditions.

What Do the Numbers Mean?

The term 20/20 means that you can see an object clearly when it's 20 feet away from you, just like normal. If your vision is 20/100, then viewing an object from 100 feet away is too far for you but fine for others; to see it clearly, you must come within 20 feet of that object.

Is 20/20 Perfect Vision?

No, 20/20 only refers to how well you see things at a distance. Your overall visual ability depends on a number of other factors as well, such as:

  • Peripheral (side) vision
  • Depth perception
  • Eye coordination
  • Ability to focus
  • Ability to see colors

How Is Visual Acuity Measured?

Your optometry clinic has several tests that can check your visual acuity. A common test consists of a chart with letters that become smaller as you read further down the page. Each line of letters corresponds to a level of visual acuity. If the "20/20" line looks blurry to you, then you may have impaired vision.

How Is Impaired Vision Corrected?

If your impaired vision is not caused by a medical condition such as diabetes, then your eye care provider can help you determine the best choice for your case. Common options include:

  • Eyeglasses
    This traditional technique is easy, safe, practical and affordable. It can also be stylish as well.
  • Contact Lenses
    These miniature lenses rest directly on the front of your eyeball. People with an active lifestyle often favor this approach.
  • Corrective Surgery
    This offers a more permanent solution. Depending on the severity and type of your visual impairment, it will improve your eyesight, but it might not be able to give you 20/20 vision.

If you lack 20/20 vision, corrective aids can adjust your eyesight to create clearer vision. This will help keep you safe and prevent eyestrain, which can cause headaches and fatigue. Working with your eye care provider is the best way to determine whether your vision should be corrected.

  • Common Eye Conditions
    • Age-Related
    • Eye Lids
    • Cognitive and Acquired
    • Vision Impairment
    • Injury & Irritation
    • Changes in Appearance
  • Contact Lenses
  • Eye Diseases
  • Eyeglasses
    • Eyeglass Lenses
  • Eye Symptoms
  • How the Eyes Work
    • Basic Visual Skills
  • Pediatric Vision
  • Protecting Your Eyes
  • Visual Rehabilitation
  • Vision Problems
  • What is Vision Therapy
  • Vision Therapy Programs
  • We Can Help With
    • Cataracts
    • Corneal Disorders
      • Disorders
    • Glaucoma
    • Refractive Disorders
    • Adult Strabismus
    • Retinal Disorders
  • Newsletters
    • Amazing, Interesting Eyes
    • Medical Perspectives
    • Kid's Vision
    • Conditions That Affect Vision
    • Tips for Healthy Eyes
    • Contacts
    • Glasses & Frames

Contact Us

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Merle Hay Office: 515-278-1653

Monday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Sunday:

CLOSED

Valley West Office: 515-224-9681

Monday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Sunday:

CLOSED

Valley West Office : 515.224.9681

Our offices are conveniently located in the Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines and the Valley West Mall in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Testimonials

Reviews From Our Satisfied Patients

    I decided to get my eyes checked on a whim while I was at the mall and they were able to fit me in. The tech who worked with me worked quickly yet carefully. Dr. Brown was very kind, professional, and knowledgeable.

    Rachel S.

    Super friendly, helpful and efficient staff and Dr. Brown is always great to work with. I am very happy with the care and services at this office.

    Beth R.

    Had an exam yesterday, everyone was very nice. I also had my rowdy 3-year old and they were so patient as he was very curious to what was going on, they had crayons and paper for him. Dr. Katie was who I saw and she explained everything so well I had no problem understanding what she was telling me. I was impressed with how quickly I was able to see her since this was my first visit and check in went quickly. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone looking for a comfortable atmospher

    Ashley B.

    I was able to schedule a same day appointment which was very convenient. The technician was very helpful and explained all the tests that were performed. Dr. Brown was fast, efficient, and very through with my eye exam. I will continue to trust Huseman for my eye health.

    Marqui B.

    It is always a pleasant experience working with Dr. Soults and Dr. Brown at the Valley West clinic.

    Shane O.

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