Sjónsvið

Sjónsvið is an Icelandic term that translates to "field of vision" or "visual field." It refers to the entire area that an individual can see at any given moment without moving their eyes or head. This concept is fundamental in ophthalmology and optometry, where the measurement and assessment of the visual field are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring various eye conditions.

The visual field is not uniform; peripheral vision is less detailed and sensitive to light and color compared to central vision, which is responsible for sharp, detailed sight. Conditions like glaucoma, optic nerve damage, stroke, or brain tumors can affect the visual field, leading to blind spots (scotomas) or a narrowing of the field of vision. These changes can impact a person's ability to navigate their environment, recognize faces, or perform everyday tasks.

Visual field testing, often performed using a perimetry device, helps map out the boundaries of a person's vision. This diagnostic tool presents lights of varying intensity at different points within the visual field, and the patient indicates when they see them. The resulting map is then analyzed by an eye care professional to identify any abnormalities. Understanding one's sjónsvið is essential for maintaining good vision and detecting potential health issues early.