Question
In '07 I had an exam at Kaiser Hospital with an axis reading of OD 91 and OS 105. I wore glasses with that Rx. with no problems, but lost them recently. I just had an exam and the axis readings were OD 100 and OS 85. The sphere and cyl. readings in both exams were the same. Is it unusual that the axis readings would switch in such a fashion or do you believe the Dr. entered them incorrectly?
Answer
People can shift axis like that sometimes. Did you get the new glasses yet - and do they seem ok? If not, I would go ahead and buy the new glasses. Then if you have a problem, take them back and raise the question of the axis shift with the doctor. Most optical places will change the prescription for you at no charge if the doctor writes a new Rx within say 30 or 60 days.
For another consideration, you may want to look at the amount of astigmatism correction. This would be the second set of numbers, usually listed under the word "cyl" on the prescription. If the word "cyl" is not written on there, there will first be a set of numbers that indicates an amount of nearsightedness or farsightedness. It will start with a (+) sign or a (-) sign followed by something like 3.25 or any set of number with two digits after the decimal. Then there will be another (-) sign if you got the Rx from an optometrist, or it may be a (+) sign if you got the Rx from an ophthalmologist followed by another notation with two digits after the decimal point. This will be the amount of astigmatism correction. If that number is 1.25 or less, I would not worry about the axis because you will most likely not notice the difference. If that number is over 2.50, the difference in axis will be very noticeable and you are more likely to have trouble adapting to the new Rx.
Nonetheless, I would give the doctor the benefit of the doubt and try the Rx before you worry any more about it. In most optical shops, procedures are in place to resolve problems people might have adapting to a new prescription without involving added cost to the patient.
