Visual field testing

Overview

Visual field testing is a test that checks how much you can see to the sides (peripheral vision) and in your central vision. It maps out where you can and cannot see. It is often used to find and track eye conditions like glaucoma, nerve damage, or stroke effects.

Visual field testing is a standard part of many eye exams, especially for people at risk of glaucoma or other vision problems.

It is used for anyone who may have vision loss, including older adults, people with high eye pressure, diabetes, or a family history of eye disease. It is also used after a stroke or head injury.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• You might not notice your own visual field loss because the brain fills in gaps.
• Common symptoms that lead to testing include: bumping into things on one side, trouble seeing in dim light, or noticing a blind spot.

Symptoms in children

• Children may not tell you about vision problems; signs include clumsiness, poor school performance, or avoiding activities that require good side vision.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have gradual loss of side vision without noticing. They might trip more often or have accidents when driving.

Causes

Main causes

• Glaucoma – increased pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve
• Optic nerve damage from inflammation, poor blood flow, or compression
• Stroke or brain tumour that affects parts of the brain that process vision
• Retinal problems, such as a detached retina or diabetic retinopathy

Risk factors

• Being over 60 years old
• Having a family history of glaucoma or vision loss
• Having high eye pressure, diabetes, or high blood pressure
• Previous eye injury or surgery

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you suddenly lose all or part of your vision in one or both eyes
• If you see a curtain-like shade or shadow in your vision
• If you have sudden blind spots with headache or weakness

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a condition like glaucoma and need regular testing
• If you are over 40 and have a family history of eye disease
• If you have had a head injury and experience new vision changes

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, then perform a visual field test. The test is often part of a comprehensive eye exam.

Tests that may be done

• Confrontation test – the doctor moves their fingers from your side to see when you notice them
• Automated perimetry – a machine checks your side vision while you look at a central point
• Goldmann perimetry – a trained technician maps your vision with a moving light

What to expect at your appointment

During the test, you sit in front of a machine and look straight ahead at a fixed point. Lights flash in your side vision, and you press a button when you see them. Each eye is tested separately. The whole test takes 10 to 30 minutes. It does not hurt.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what is causing the visual field loss. The goal is to prevent further loss and protect remaining vision. Your eye doctor will create a plan based on your specific condition.

Self-care at home

• Take any medicines exactly as prescribed (e.g., eye drops for glaucoma)
• Protect your eyes from injury with safety glasses when needed
• Make your home safer – use good lighting, remove trip hazards
• Report any new vision changes to your doctor right away

Medical treatments

For conditions like glaucoma, doctors may prescribe eye drops to lower eye pressure. Laser treatment or injections can help with some retinal problems. For strokes or brain issues, treatment focuses on the underlying cause. Never change your medicines without talking to your doctor.

When is surgery considered?

In some cases, surgery may be recommended to improve fluid drainage in the eye (for glaucoma) or to repair a detached retina. Your doctor will explain if surgery is an option for you.

Living with this condition

If you have visual field loss, you can still do many things. Use scanning – turn your head more often to check your surroundings. Avoid driving if your side vision is poor – your doctor can tell you if it is safe.

Lifestyle tips

• Use large-print books or a magnifier for reading
• Arrange furniture to create clear walkways
• Ask for help in crowded areas like shops or stations
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection to reduce glare

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s may support eye health. Moderate exercise like walking is good, but if you have vision loss, choose safe activities and avoid uneven surfaces.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Losing part of your vision can feel frustrating or scary. It is normal to feel sad or anxious. Talk to your doctor about ways to cope. Many people adjust well with support and time.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent visual field loss, but regular eye exams help catch problems early. If you have a condition like glaucoma, following your treatment plan can slow down vision loss.

Screening programmes

Routine eye exams, including visual field testing, are important if you are at higher risk for eye disease. Ask your doctor how often you should be tested.

Complications

If left untreated

• Permanent loss of side or central vision
• Difficulty walking or driving safely
• Higher risk of falls and accidents
• Loss of independence in daily tasks

Long-term outlook

With early detection and proper treatment, many people with visual field loss can maintain a good quality of life. Treatment cannot always restore lost vision, but it can prevent further loss. Your eye doctor will work with you to protect your sight.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.