In light of brain injury awareness month we would like to take the time to talk about concussions and how they affect vision. Vision is brain! The visual system impacts very cortex of our brain. So, an injury that damages any portion of the brain has the potential to have some effect on the way we see.
Quite commonly after a concussion the visual acuity (can you see 20/20?) is not affected, or only mildly affected. More likely the problem lies within the ability to use our two eyes. Can you focus easily on a target? Do you see two when reading or doing near work? Do you feel overwhelmed when going into a busy store or out to eat? Balance off a little? Light sensitive? These are all common visual complications of concussions, many of which will not go away without treatment.
The good news is that with a thorough evaluation by a Neuro-Developmental Optometrist treatment can be decided and implemented. This may involve the uses of glasses, light therapy and/or neuro-rehabilitative vision therapy. The goal is to get you back together and working easier. Treatment varies for each person as no two brain injuries are the same.
The College of Optometrists in Vision Development has created an info-graphic titled Return to Learn. This not only goes for students who have suffered a brain injury, but adults also.
For more information about concussions and vision visit www.covd.org or www.nora.cc
