Over 70 percent of the brain’s neural tissue is related either directly or indirectly to vision, therefore concussions will frequently result in changes to one’s vision. Convergence insufficiency is just one of the frequent side-effects of concussions and head injuries, and can be described as the inability or impaired ability to focus clearly on closer objects. Individuals who suffer from convergence insufficiency can have one or more of the following reflexes impeded; convergence (the ability to cross the eyes), lens focusing, and dilation of the pupils to increase depth of focus (miosis). The areas of the brain that support these activities can easily be damaged after even a mild concussion, and any of these functions may be disabled. Reduced visual capabilities can diminish your capacity to read, drive, work, or interact with others.
Aside from convergence insufficiency, there is a multitude of visual complications that can arise after suffering a concussion. Some of these problems can include:
- Photophobia (light sensitivity) can occur after a concussion or other form of brain injury.
- Accommodative insufficiency specifies a diminished level of focus stamina necessary for accurate near vision.
- Impaired visual processing and reaction speed can result from a concussion depending on the severity of the injury. Affected individuals may take longer to identify objects or locations within the field of vision.
- Ocular motor dysfunction is a condition in which the eyes do not accurately track or move how the individual intends. In extreme cases, ocular motor dysfunction can impact hand-eye coordination and athletic talents.
- Double Vision can be the result of a number of causes — including concussions — and it is recommended that any individual experiencing double vision schedule an appointment with an optometrist who has experience in neuro-optometry, binocular vision, and vision therapy.
- Blurred vision can occur after a concussion, and can affect one’s ability to see near or far, or both.
Are you experiencing impaired vision after suffering a cranial injury? Contact Silverstein Eye Centers today at (816) 358-3600 or request your appointment online. We can serve you at our convenient location in Independence/Kansas City.