The Visual Field Exam

Visual Field testing enables doctors to make certain determinations about the health of the eye and neurological system. It is particularly important in detecting and monitoring treatment of glaucoma. People may have glaucoma and not be aware of it because in most individuals there is no sudden change that signals either the onset or progression of glaucoma.

Assessment of the field of vision, therefore, is important not only to diagnose glaucoma at an early stage, but also for recognizing progressive damage after being diagnosed and the need for additional medication or other treatment.

The most common method currently available to doctors to assess the Visual Field is computerized (or automated) perimetry. Perimetry refers to the testing of the peripheral vision of the eye. A great deal of information about the eye can be obtained and analyzed by the computer to help your doctor decide whether it is abnormal or if it has changed compared to earlier tests.

There are several things you can do to be sure you are giving the most accurate responses to the test:

1. You should be rested, and if you are ill, you should ask your doctor to postpone the test.
2. It is important that you are comfortable. Let the technician know if you feel there is anything that can make you more comfortable during the test.
3. Let the technician know if you need to take a break in order to cough, scratch your nose, etc., or to rest.
4. Always look at the central fixation target light and try not to move your eyes around. This way, the doctor can more accurately determine from the visual field exactly where damage in the eye has occurred.

The test takes 45 minutes, but be prepared to spend at least an hour at the doctors office.

For more information about this important test, please contact us.