What Are the Indications for a Visual Field Exam? Understanding Its Importance and What to Expect

A visual field exam is a crucial diagnostic test that helps eye doctors assess a patient's peripheral (side) vision. This test is commonly used to detect blind spots, monitor disease progression, and evaluate the overall function of the optic nerve and retina. Understanding when this exam is necessary and what to expect during the process can help patients take proactive steps in preserving their vision.
 

Why Is a Visual Field Exam Important?

A visual field test measures the full horizontal and vertical range of vision, identifying any gaps or abnormalities that may indicate underlying eye conditions or neurological issues. Since many vision-threatening conditions develop gradually and without noticeable symptoms, routine testing can help detect problems early, allowing for timely treatment and intervention.
 

Indications for a Visual Field Exam

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness, often characterized by increased intraocular pressure that damages the optic nerve. A visual field test helps detect early signs of peripheral vision loss, allowing for better disease management.
 

Certain neurological disorders, including stroke, brain tumors, and multiple sclerosis, can affect visual fields. If you experience sudden vision loss, double vision, or other neurological symptoms, a visual field test may be necessary.
 

Conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and retinitis pigmentosa can cause peripheral vision loss. A visual field exam can monitor disease progression and guide treatment decisions.
 

Some medications, such as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) used for autoimmune conditions, can affect the retina and lead to vision loss. Regular visual field testing helps detect early damage before symptoms appear.
 

If you notice blind spots, tunnel vision, or other unexplained vision changes, a visual field test can help determine the underlying cause.
 

What to Expect During a Visual Field Exam

A visual field test is painless and non-invasive. The most common types include:

• Confrontation Visual Field Test – A quick screening where the doctor asks you to cover one eye and detect a moving object in your peripheral vision.

• Automated Perimetry Test – The most commonly used method, where patients press a button when they see lights appearing in different areas of their visual field.

• Goldmann Perimetry Test – A manually controlled test that maps the entire visual field, often used for complex cases.
   

The test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes per eye, and results are analyzed to determine if any vision loss is present.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Exam Today

A visual field exam is an essential tool in detecting and managing various eye and neurological conditions. By identifying changes in peripheral vision early, patients can receive appropriate care to prevent further vision loss. If you have risk factors for glaucoma, neurological conditions, or other eye diseases, scheduling a visual field test can help protect your vision for the future.
 

If you are experiencing vision changes or have been advised to undergo a visual field test, contact Lakeview Optometry to schedule an eye exam. Visit our office in Monticello, Indiana, or call (574) 583-5531 to book an appointment today.