Typically, we find that when someone has a mild head injury they do not think of it as a brain injury. Since March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, we thought this would be a good time to share some information with you regarding how mild head injuries (this includes concussions) can impact vision.

Many people do not realize that the eyes are actually part of the brain. Because of that fact, when the brain is injured (for example, with a concussion or other acquired injury), vision is also likely to be affected. There are a number of different types of vision disorders that can result from concussions.
Here is a 1 minute public service announcement regarding head injuries. Please take a moment to watch this important video.
Click Here to Watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_7vF61OtZo)
We have helped numerous patients over the years who struggled with vision problems relating to concussion. In many cases we have been able to help our patients return to school and/or work.

Following is a partial list of vision symptoms that can occur when someone has a head injury:
* Double vision or blurred vision
* Dizziness or nausea
* Light sensitivity
* Spatial disorientation
* Side (peripheral) vision loss
* Trouble with remembering things
* Difficulty shifting focus near to far
* Losing place when reading
* Comprehension problems when reading
* Perceived movement of stationary objects

The types of vision problems that one can experience after a concussion, etc., include eye movement (tracking), focusing and eye coordination. Problems with these visual skills can cause one to struggle with reading and learning as well as balance and movement.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You do not have to be knocked unconscious in order to have a concussion. A concussion is actually considered a mild traumatic brain injury.

Most people do not think twice about getting bumps to the head. And athletes like to “tough it out” and get back in the game as soon as possible, so unless the injury is severe, they will not even tell you what happened.
If you or a loved one is suddenly struggling with reading, or just taking longer than usual, suspect a concussion and get vision checked out. You need to see an optometrist who has an in-office program of optometric vision therapy for the appropriate visual rehabilitation.

For more information or a more in-depth symptom checklist, please email, call our office or…
Visit Our Website (https://semenzavisiontherapy.com/concussion/)