During a exam at Brooks Eye Associates, your doctor may recommend a visual field test. You might wonder if it’s really necessary—especially if you see clearly and have no symptoms. But skipping this simple test could allow serious eye diseases to progress silently.
Here’s what you should know about why this test matters, what it detects, and how it helps preserve your vision for years to come.
What Is a Visual Field Test?
A visual field test measures how well you can see to the sides—your peripheral vision—while you focus on a single point straight ahead. It helps your ophthalmologist detect blind spots, areas of reduced vision, and patterns that reveal early eye disease.
At Brooks Eye Associates, this test is quick, painless, and completely non-invasive. You’ll simply look into a dome-shaped device and press a button whenever you see a small flash of light in your side vision. The machine maps your responses, creating a visual “fingerprint” of your eyesight.
Why Skipping Your Visual Field Test Is a Mistake
Even if your vision seems perfect, certain conditions can develop without warning. Skipping your visual field test might mean missing the earliest—and most treatable—stages of disease.
1. It detects glaucoma before you notice symptoms
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve and often begins by stealing your side vision. Because this happens slowly, most people don’t realize they’re losing vision until significant damage occurs. A visual field test can identify these changes long before you notice any vision loss.
2. It reveals neurological or retinal problems
Beyond glaucoma, visual field testing can uncover issues such as:
- Optic nerve damage
- Brain tumors or strokes affecting vision pathways
- Retinal conditions like retinal detachment or vascular disease
Your visual field is closely linked to how your brain processes vision, so this test also provides valuable insight into your overall neurological health.
3. It helps track treatment effectiveness
If you’re being treated for glaucoma, diabetes-related eye disease, or other chronic conditions, regular visual field testing allows your ophthalmologist to track changes and adjust treatment to prevent further vision loss.
4. It establishes a baseline for future care
For healthy patients, a normal visual field test gives your doctor a baseline to compare against future results—so any subtle changes can be detected early.
Common Questions About Visual Field Testing
1. Does the test hurt?
No. The test is completely painless and non-invasive. You may blink or rest your eyes between sections.
2. How long does it take?
Most tests take 5–10 minutes per eye, depending on the type of screening.
3. Do I need to prepare for it?
There’s no special preparation required. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them to your appointment.
4. Can I skip it if I see fine?
No—many conditions cause no early symptoms. The visual field test is designed to detect vision loss before it affects your day-to-day life.
5. What happens if I skip the test?
Skipping it means potential problems could progress unnoticed. By the time symptoms appear, permanent vision loss may have already occurred.
Why Choose Brooks Eye Associates in North Texas
At Brooks Eye Associates, we provide advanced diagnostic testing and personalized care to protect your sight. Our practice serves patients from Las Colinas, Plano, and the greater Dallas area, offering everything from comprehensive exams to advanced vision-correction surgery.
When you choose us, you can expect:
- State-of-the-art diagnostic technology
- Expert ophthalmologists who specialize in early detection and treatment
- Personalized recommendations for your unique visual health
- Convenient scheduling options and compassionate care
Protect Your Vision—Don’t Skip the Test
Your vision is priceless, and prevention is always easier than treatment. A visual field test at Brooks Eye Associates can reveal issues before they become sight-threatening, giving you peace of mind and the best chance to preserve lifelong vision.
