Can Visual Field Testing Detect More Than Just Glaucoma?

When it comes to protecting your eyesight, early detection is key. Visual field testing is one of the most effective tools eye doctors use to catch problems before they progress. While it’s best known for identifying glaucoma, this test can reveal much more.
 

What Is Visual Field Testing?

Visual field testing, also known as perimetry, measures your central and peripheral vision. During the test, you’ll be asked to focus on a central point while identifying lights or movement in your peripheral vision. The results help map out areas where your vision may be reduced or missing entirely.
 

Neurological Disorders

Certain neurological conditions can significantly affect how the brain processes visual information. Visual field testing can help detect issues such as strokes, which may cause blind spots or hemianopia. Brain tumors can also impact areas responsible for vision, leading to distinct patterns of visual field loss.
 

Additionally, multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that affects the central nervous system, can damage the optic nerve and result in areas of diminished or distorted vision. Visual field testing provides valuable insights into these conditions, often prompting further medical evaluation.
 

Retinal Conditions

While primarily used to monitor optic nerve health, visual field testing is also helpful in assessing certain retinal diseases. Retinitis pigmentosa, a hereditary disorder, leads to progressive peripheral vision loss and can be tracked using this test. Although macular degeneration mainly affects central vision, visual field testing can offer a broader view of how much peripheral vision is preserved or compromised, helping guide diagnosis and treatment planning.
 

Optic Nerve Diseases

Beyond glaucoma, several other optic nerve disorders can be identified through visual field testing. Conditions such as optic neuritis, which is often associated with inflammation, and ischemic optic neuropathy, which is caused by reduced blood flow to the optic nerve, can produce abnormal visual field patterns. Detecting these changes early allows for timely referral and management to prevent further vision loss.
 

Take a Proactive Step Toward Protecting Your Vision

While visual field testing is a key tool in monitoring and diagnosing glaucoma, its applications go far beyond that. From detecting neurological conditions and retinal diseases to uncovering optic nerve damage, this test is a powerful component of a thorough eye health assessment.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with visual field testing at Rieger Eyecare Group to detect early signs of glaucoma, neurological conditions, and more. Visit our office in Normal, Illinois, or call (309) 320-2020 to book an appointment today.