The Visual Field Test: What It Can Tell You About Your Vision and Glaucoma

A visual field test is a vital part of eye health examinations. It helps to detect glaucoma. Glaucoma often affects your peripheral vision first, making it difficult to detect without proper testing. A visual field test helps to identify issues in your vision that may not be noticeable right away.

What Happens During a Visual Field Test?

During a visual field test, you will focus on a fixed point in front of you. The eye doctor will show flashes of light in different areas of your peripheral vision. Your task is simple: press a button whenever you see a flash of light.

The test takes half an hour or less and is painless. You may feel a slight pressure or a mild snapping sensation in your peripheral vision, but most people find it bearable. The results are collected by a computer, which creates a detailed map of your vision.

What Can a Visual Field Test Tell You About Your Vision and Glaucoma?

A visual field test can reveal a range of other vision issues. Here is what this test can tell you:

• Detects early signs of glaucoma. This test can detect changes in peripheral vision, which is often the first sign of glaucoma.

• Reveals blind spots or vision loss. It can highlight areas where you might be losing vision, even without noticing.

• Tracks vision changes over time. The test helps detect the progression of glaucoma and other conditions.

• Assesses the health of the optic nerve. It can indicate damage to the optic nerve, often caused by glaucoma.

• Monitors retinal health. The test can also detect issues with the retina, like macular degeneration.

• Detects signs of brain conditions. Problems with the visual field can sometimes indicate neurological issues, such as brain tumors or stroke.

• Identifies hidden vision problems. Diabetic retinopathy might not show symptoms early but can be detected by the test.

• Assists in diagnosing other eye conditions. It can reveal signs of cataracts, age-related vision changes, and other common issues.

Why Is a Visual Field Test Important for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma (the silent thief of sight) often causes little or no pain while damaging your vision. The disease initially affects peripheral vision, which is difficult to notice without a formal eye examination.

When doctors detect glaucoma early, they can intervene with treatments that slow or stop its progression. Regular visual field tests are essential for people diagnosed with glaucoma. They help track any vision changes and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Who Should Get a Visual Field Test?

Anyone can benefit from a visual field test. However, the test is crucial for:

• People over 40. Age increases the risk of glaucoma and other vision problems.

• Those with a family history of glaucoma. Genetics plays an important role in the development of glaucoma.

• Diabetic patients. Diabetes can lead to vision problems, including diabetic retinopathy.

• Those with high eye pressure. High intraocular pressure is a risk factor for the condition.

• Anyone experiencing vision changes. If you notice blurry vision, blind spots, or difficulty seeing at night, this test can help identify the cause.

For more on the visual field test, visit F & M Family Eyecare at our Riverdale, Georgia, office. Call (770) 996-3495 to book an appointment today.

https://glaucoma.org/articles/what-is-a-visual-field-test