How Visual Field Testing Can Detect Early Signs of Glaucoma

For those living in Sugar Land, Texas, taking care of your vision is an important part of overall health. Some eye conditions, such as glaucoma, can develop without any warning signs and lead to vision loss over time. At Texas State Optical Riverstone, we use advanced diagnostic tools like visual field testing to detect glaucoma early and help preserve your sight for the future.
 

Understanding Glaucoma and the Importance of Early Detection

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased intraocular pressure. This damage can lead to gradual vision loss and, if left untreated, permanent blindness. One of the challenges with glaucoma is that it typically progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. Early detection through comprehensive eye exams is critical and visual field testing plays a key role in that process.
 

What Is Visual Field Testing?

Visual field testing is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that measures your peripheral (side) vision. While most people focus on what they see directly in front of them, peripheral vision is just as essential for daily activities such as driving, walking, and detecting motion.

During a visual field test, you’ll be asked to look straight ahead while lights or objects appear in your peripheral vision. The test records whether or not you can see these stimuli and maps the full scope of your vision. Any gaps or blind spots may indicate early damage to the optic nerve, even if you haven’t noticed any changes in your vision.
 

How Visual Field Testing Helps Detect Glaucoma

Glaucoma typically affects peripheral vision first. Since these changes are subtle and develop gradually, they often go unnoticed without testing. Visual field testing can detect these early deficits before they impact your central vision or daily life.

If a visual field test reveals irregularities, your optometrist may perform additional tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and tonometry to confirm a diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.
 

Who Should Get a Visual Field Test?

While visual field testing is a routine part of a comprehensive eye exam for patients over 40, those at higher risk for glaucoma may require more frequent testing. Risk factors include:

• Family history of glaucoma

• Age over 60

• African, Hispanic, or Asian descent

• High intraocular pressure

• History of eye injury or surgery

• Certain medical conditions like diabetes or hypertension

Early testing is crucial - even if you’re not currently experiencing vision problems.
 

Protect Your Vision at Texas State Optical Riverstone

Visual field testing is a powerful tool in the early detection and management of glaucoma. At Texas State Optical Riverstone, we are committed to preserving your eye health with advanced diagnostic technology and personalized care.

Schedule your medical eye exam with a visual field test at Texas State Optical Riverstone to detect early signs of glaucoma and safeguard your eye health. Contact our office in Sugar Land, Texas, by calling (346) 449-7200 to book an appointment today.