Contrast Sensitivity Testing

A contrast sensitivity test measures your ability to distinguish between finer and finer increments of light versus dark (contrast).

According to an article by Gary Heiting published on allaboutvision on “Contrast Sensitivity Testing”, contrast sensitivity is a very important measure of visual function, especially in situations of low light, fog or glare, when the contrast between objects and their background often is reduced.

This test is different from the common visual acuity testing in a routine eye exam, which measures your ability to recognize smaller and smaller letters on a standard eye chart.

Even if you have 20/20 visual acuity, you can have eye or health conditions that may diminish your contrast sensitivity and make you feel that you are not seeing well. Low contrast sensitivity can be a symptom of certain eye conditions or diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.

Contrast sensitivity testing often isn't included in a routine eye exam. Your eye doctor might perform the test because of a specific visual complaint you have or because he or she suspects you have a condition that is affecting your ability to discern contrast.

Finally, we would like to encourage you to visit your eye doctor regularly to retain healthy eyesight and early detection of eye problems. Get an eye exam atleast once a year. For more help related to your eye health visit 20/20 Eyeglass Superstore in Florida.