Why Do I Need a Visual Field Test?
Why Do I Need a Visual Field Test?
During your visit to our eye centre you may have been asked to undertake a Visual Field Test, but what does it actually do?
Visual field tests are a subjective measure of central and peripheral (side) vision and are used by our ophthalmologist to diagnose and monitor glaucoma as well as some other neurological-based eye conditions.
What happens during a Visual Field Test?
During the test you will be asked to sit in front of a machine called a Visual Field Analyser, with your chin placed firmly on the chin-rest and your forehead resting gently against the brow-band of the machine. It is important that you feel comfortable during the test so that you are not distracted and are able to give it your full attention.
Once the test begins you will need to keep your eye fixed on a central target point straight ahead of you. Pinpoint flashes of light of varying size and brightness will then be presented in different areas of your peripheral vision and you will be asked press a button each time you see one of these lights. It is important to try to remain focused on the central point rather that moving your eyes to look for the lights.
Zeiss Humfrey Visual Field Analyser
Don’t be concerned if time seems to be passing without a light appearing. The machine often makes the light very dim so that it can tell when you can just see light at each position tested. It is expected that some of the time the lights will be too dim for you to see, regardless if your have glaucoma or not. Remember, the aim is not to ‘ace’ the test but to give an accurate representation of your vision.
Results from a Visual Field Test
The machine will then collect the data and use a specialised software program to analyse the results which our ophthalmologist will use to form a diagnosis. After the initial diagnosis our ophthalmologist will repeat the visual field test periodically (usually in three to twelve months) to check for any changes in the disease and they will discuss a management plan with you.
If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma and would like to schedule an appointment to discuss your condition, please call us on (03) 9459 5133 or send an email to info@eyecentre.com.au