When it comes to your eye exam, you want to visit an optometrist in Alexandria, VA, who has the latest technologies. The Visual Evoked Potential, for example, is a test used to measure the electrical activity in your ocular system. The light that enters your eyes is typically converted into electrical energy as it travels from the retina to the optical nerve to the visual cortex of the brain. When everything works well, the electrical energy is processed into vision.
About the Test
VEP is typically used to measure the speed and strength of the electrical signal as it reaches your visual cortex. The test itself is rather simple. It is a non-invasive test. Sensory pads are placed on your head before the local optometrist starts the VEP. Each test may be a little different, but typically you will have to cover one eye at a time to allow each eye to be analyzed individually.
Once you are prepared, a series of black and white patterns will come across a computer screen. You simply have to watch these patterns as they continually change for the duration of the test, which is about 45 minutes. The computer and the sensors on your head are able to create a report for your eye doctor to look at.
What it Tests
VEP can be used as a regular part of your eye exam in Alexandria. However, some optometrists choose to only use this test if you are suffering from:
- Blurred Vision
- Double Vision
- Flashing Lights
- Loss of Vision
- Weakness of the Eyes
This test is beneficial when compared to an MRI because it can give a clearer reading of the optic nerve function. VEP can help diagnose diseases, such as optic neuritis, tumors, glaucoma, optic neuropathy and ocular hypertension.
Get More Information
If you have questions about VEP, you should talk with your optometrist in Alexandria, VA. He or she may be able to answer your questions and perform the test if necessary.