Concussion: a Cause of Post Traumatic Vision Syndrome

Published on

February 21, 2022

A concussion is the least serious type of traumatic brain injury. The most common cause of concussions is a direct blow to the head. Among the other causes are sports injuries, auto accidents, bicycle accidents, work-related injuries, falls, and fights. A greater number of people have become aware of concussions. In fact, the awareness of concussions has been mainly seen in professional sports, but it is starting to expand to college level, high school level, and even younger individuals who suffer concussions. This awareness has led to an explosion of research that has been done on concussions and the measures or strategies on how to minimize the concussions from occurring.

What are the most common vision problems caused by concussion?

It is estimated that 90% of traumatic brain injuries result in visual disturbance. Among the most common visual symptoms of concussion are:

Double or blurred vision
Photophobia and light sensitivity
A partial loss of vision
Ocular pain
Irregular eye movements
Sensitivity to visual motion
Vertical heterophoria

What is post traumatic vision syndrome?

Post-traumatic vision syndrome is the result of an interruption between the visual cortext and the brain. This disrupts the stored “programs'' that guide how the visual system functions. Unfortunately, this damage often goes undetected by medical imaging. More specific diagnoses such as egocentric visual midline shift, oculomotor dysfunction, and binocular dysfunction are also included under the PTVS umbrella.

How is post traumatic vision syndrome treated?

Post traumatic vision syndrome can be treated with a neuro-optometric rehabilitation program. This treatment may include the use of lenses with prisms, vision therapy or neuro-rehabilitation, and syntonic light therapy. Depending on the patient's needs, treatment may last for several weeks to more than a year. Additionally, the extent to which the problem can be corrected will be determined by the severity of the injuries.

Testimonials

I haven't actually used the optometrist side, so my review is limited to the vision therapy offered. This office was recommended by my occupational therapist for the treatment of my double vision following a stroke.

Claire A.
Love this location. I had a brain injury accident from day one one. All the team make you feel you still important and hope in the horizon after when the medical system fell you miserably. Dr. Ikeda very professional and very understanding about your issue. Two tombs up.

Jim K.
My husband and I were immediately impressed with Dr Ikeda. I was hit by a car while cycling which caused broken bones and three brain injuries. The brain injuries caused double vision. Dr. Ikeda examined my eyes and got me started on vision therapy with his occupational therapist who specializes in vision therapy. She (Chris) is absolutely great. I am impressed with the array of tools used to help recover my binocular vision. I am doing things I never thought were possible (balance boards etc). Chris pushes me and keeps me motivated. I really enjoy my sessions with her. The office staff is always friendly and they have a wonderful appointment reminder tool that makes it easy to keep my calendar up to date. I am happy the rehab center at Little Co. of Mary recommended them!!

Teresa S.
The Vision Therapy is handled in a separate office through a different door from the shared waiting room. Chris, the vision therapist, has a wide and varied assortment of tools, equipment and resources to best evaluate and treat most vision issues. After just a few visits, my double vision became easier to control, using exercises developed during the therapy process. It was time well-spent.

Joe M.
I have been coming here since I can remember. I love it here. The staff is so amazing and nice. They explain everything they gonna do and never make you feel rushed. Dr. Ikeda has always been my doctor and I would never want another one. He is the doctor for my whole family and is always asking how everyone is doing. I am also so crazy about picking out my frames and have to try so many and each person who helps me take the time and lets me try them all on. I would never want to go anywhere else! I definitely would recommend this office to anyone looking for a great eye doctor.

Kayla W.