Why Peripheral Vision Testing Is Important

One of the checks your optometrist will perform during an eye exam is the visual field test. This procedure is a test for your side vision. While this test may not seem as important as the ones for your front vision, it can be a useful diagnostic tool. Here is more information about the visual field test and the reasons why your optometrist may want a more thorough examination.

How Does an Optometrist Test Peripheral Vision?

A visual field test is usually standard as part of a routine eye exam. Doctors use several methods to check your visual field. Some tests are as simple as asking you to count how many fingers they have up as you look straight ahead. Or, they may use a grid where you look at a dot in the center and tell the doctor if any lines look wavy. Some optometrists may also use a machine to test your peripheral vision.

When Are Extra Tests Necessary?

If your field seems normal, you may not need any additional tests. If your visual field is shortened, that could be a sign of a peripheral vision problem. The optometrist may also want to do a more extensive visual test if you have signs of a disease like glaucoma.

The optometrist may use other devices to measure your visual field more precisely. You may need to return to the office over a period of time to measure its progression.

What Eye Problems Affect Peripheral Vision?

Peripheral vision does a lot to help you get around. While a small loss may not cause you a problem, a significant loss could indicate disease. If you have severe or progressive peripheral vision loss, you could have a disease or health issue.

While some conditions, like migraines, are temporary, other conditions are not. Retinitis pigmentosa, for example, causes visual field problems and eventually leads to blindness.

How Is a Peripheral Vision Problem Treated?

Treatment for a peripheral vision problem depends on the cause. In general, eyeglasses do not help with this problem, though some can benefit from prism lenses. Glaucoma, migraines, and retinal problems may benefit from medical treatment. You may also need more regular visual field testing if you have those conditions.

While you may think you don't use your peripheral vision very much, it is important. If you have a diminishing visual field, you could have an eye health issue. If you do nothing, it could get worse. Make sure you get your recommended yearly eye examination to check for visual changes. If you notice you have vision problems, see your optometrist right away.