A visual field test maps out what your world looks like to you. It measures the area of vision, or how wide of an area that can be seen when the eyes are focused on a single point. In addition to what can be seen straight ahead, the visual field includes what can be seen above, below, and to either side of the point the eyes are focused on. Vision is typically the sharpest in the middle of the visual field.
A visual field test is often given as part of an eye exam. Visual field testing helps to determine where your peripheral vision begins and ends and how well you can see objects in your peripheral vision. It is important to get a visual field test as often as is recommended by your eye doctor, in order to monitor progress and preserve vision. This test is recommended for patients who have a risk of glaucoma and also patients with certain neural defects.