By Dr. Deborah Oparaji (OD)
Peripheral vision—our ability to see objects and movement outside the direct line of sight—is critical for daily activities such as driving, walking, sports, and maintaining balance. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic in Ikoyi, Lagos, we offer specialized peripheral vision testing to detect early vision issues related to the eyes and brain. Early detection through testing helps prevent serious conditions like glaucoma and optic nerve damage, preserving your overall eye health.
What is Peripheral Vision?
Peripheral vision allows you to see things outside your direct focus, helping detect movement and objects around you. While central vision focuses on details like reading or recognizing faces, peripheral vision:
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Alerts you to danger from the sides
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Detects motion important for sports and general awareness
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Aids in coordination and balance
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Helps you navigate environments safely
Why Peripheral Vision Matters
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Alertness to Danger: Detect hazards while driving or walking.
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Movement Detection: Key for athletes and daily awareness.
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Coordination and Balance: Supports spatial awareness for safe movement.
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General Surroundings Awareness: Helps avoid obstacles and navigate crowds.
Causes of Peripheral Vision Problems
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Glaucoma: Leading cause of peripheral vision loss due to optic nerve damage.
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Retinal Conditions: Diseases like diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration.
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Optic Neuropathy: Resulting from injuries or neurological diseases.
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Stroke or Brain Injury: Affects visual processing centers in the brain.
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Aging: Natural decline in peripheral vision sensitivity.
Peripheral Vision Testing at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi offers advanced peripheral vision testing to evaluate your visual field and detect potential concerns early.
What to Expect During Testing
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Visual Field Test (Perimetry):
Focus on a central point while lights flash at the edges; press a button when you see them to map your peripheral vision. -
Automated Perimetry:
A precise machine-assisted test, vital for early glaucoma detection. -
Confrontation Test:
A basic screening where the doctor moves their hands in your peripheral field to assess vision. -
Electrophysiological Tests:
Advanced tests measuring electrical activity in the retina and optic nerve for complex cases.
What Peripheral Vision Testing Reveals
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Detects Glaucoma: Early loss of peripheral vision can be identified and managed.
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Reveals Retinal Conditions: Identifies diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or detachment.
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Diagnoses Neurological Conditions: Such as stroke- or injury-related vision loss.
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Assesses Optic Nerve Damage: Quantifies extent and location of vision loss.
Importance of Regular Eye Check-ups
Routine eye exams with peripheral vision testing are critical, even without symptoms. Many diseases develop slowly and unnoticed. Early diagnosis at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi increases treatment success and helps maintain healthy vision.
Conclusion
Peripheral vision is essential for safety, coordination, and awareness in everyday life. SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi prioritizes peripheral vision testing as part of comprehensive eye care to protect your vision and overall wellbeing.
If you notice changes in your peripheral vision or haven’t had an eye exam recently, schedule a visit with our experienced optometrists today for expert care.
📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
Ikoyi Plaza, Keffi Street, Ikoyi.
📞 0701 820 7486