A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that typically occurs due to a blow or jolt to the head. While the effects of a concussion are primarily neurological, they can also significantly impact vision and eye health.
Visual Symptoms of a Concussion
Individuals who have sustained a concussion may experience a range of visual symptoms. These symptoms can vary widely depending on the severity of the injury and the areas of the brain affected. Common visual symptoms associated with concussions include blurred vision, double vision, and difficulty focusing. Many patients report that their vision appears hazy or out of focus, making it challenging to read or perform tasks that require visual concentration.
Some individuals may also experience sensitivity to light, a condition known as photophobia. This heightened sensitivity can make bright environments uncomfortable and can exacerbate headaches or migraines associated with the concussion. As a result, individuals may seek dimly lit environments to alleviate their discomfort.
Another common symptom is difficulty with eye movement coordination. This can manifest as problems tracking moving objects or coordinating eye movements, which may lead to issues with balance and depth perception. As the eyes struggle to work together, individuals may feel unsteady or off-balance.
Eye Discomfort and Pain
In addition to visual disturbances, concussions can lead to discomfort or pain in and around the eyes. Individuals may experience headaches that are often localized around the eyes or forehead. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be worsened by eye movements or exposure to light.
Some individuals describe a feeling of pressure behind the eyes or a constant ache. This discomfort can be coupled with other symptoms of a concussion, such as nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. The combination of these symptoms can create significant distress, making daily tasks difficult to perform.
What Does a Concussion Feel Like for the Eyes? Effects on Vision & Coordination
A concussion can impair the brain’s ability to process visual information and coordinate eye movements. This impairment can lead to strain when trying to focus on objects or read. Eye strain can further exacerbate headaches and cause fatigue, leading to increased discomfort during activities that require close visual attention, such as reading or using electronic devices.
In some cases, individuals may also experience blurred vision during specific activities, such as transitioning from looking at something close to viewing a distant object. This difficulty can stem from a delay in the eyes’ ability to adjust focus due to disturbances in visual processing pathways.
Recognition and Diagnosis
Recognizing the eye-related symptoms of a concussion is vital for proper diagnosis and management. Individuals who experience any visual changes following a head injury should seek medical evaluation. Eye care professionals, including optometrists and ophthalmologists, can conduct comprehensive eye examinations to assess visual function and determine whether symptoms are related to a concussion.
During the evaluation, an eye care professional may perform tests to evaluate visual acuity, eye movements, and coordination. These tests help identify specific visual deficits and guide appropriate management strategies.
Treatment and Management
The management of visual symptoms resulting from a concussion typically involves a multidisciplinary approach. Eye care professionals may recommend rest and limit activities that require intense visual focus until symptoms improve. Additionally, engaging in visual rehabilitation exercises can help strengthen eye coordination and improve overall visual function.
In some cases, individuals may benefit from using glasses prescribed specifically for their visual deficits, such as prisms to correct double vision. If headaches are present, a healthcare provider may recommend pain management strategies, which can include over-the-counter medications or other therapeutic interventions.