A color vision test checks your ability to distinguish between different colors.
Alternative Names:
Eye test - color; Vision test - color; Ishihara color vision test
How the test is performed:
You will sit in a comfortable position, and your health care provider will explain the test to you. You will be shown several symbols made of colored dot patterns. These dot patterns are on a background of randomly mixed colors.
You will be asked to identify the symbols, if possible.
As you cover one eye, the tester will hold the test plates 14 inches from your face and ask you to quickly identify the symbol found in each color scheme.
How to prepare for the test:
If your child is to have this test performed, it may be helpful to explain how the test will feel, and even practice or demonstrate on a doll. Your child will feel less anxious about the test if you explain what will happen and why..
If you or your child normally wears glasses, wear them during the test.
With small children, distinguishing a red bottle cap from caps of a different color may be the test.
How the test will feel:
The test is similar to a vision test.
Review Date: 2/22/2007
Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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