On an eye prescription, “DS” stands for diopters sphere. It indicates the amount of lens power, measured in diopters, needed to correct nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia). A positive number (+) signifies farsightedness correction, while a negative number (-) signifies nearsightedness correction. For example, a prescription with DS +2.00 indicates 2.00 diopters of correction for farsightedness. The value reflects the spherical correction needed for focused vision.
Accurate determination of the spherical correction is fundamental for clear vision and visual comfort. It addresses refractive errors, ensuring that light focuses properly on the retina. The inclusion of this measurement in an eye examination is essential for prescribing corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses) and managing visual impairments. Historically, precise measurement of refractive errors has evolved significantly, leading to improvements in lens design and visual outcomes.
