Understanding Visual Symptoms

Many people mistakenly think that vision is simply eyesight, and that if one has 20/20 vision, that they have no vision problems. However, this is far from the truth. There is much more to the visual system, and in order to properly recognize and understand the various vision issues that can arise, as well as their symptoms.

Take our Vision Quiz to learn whether you should explore Vision Therapy

Physical Symptoms

Some symptoms are easily observable in one’s actions, or how one feels on a regular basis. These include:

Frequent Headaches

If a child is having vision issues, especially issues like convergence insufficiency which make focusing difficult, the eye strain caused by attempts to force themselves to focus can lead to regular headaches.

Head Tilting

If a child tilts their head often while looking at either near or distant objects, it can signify a refractive error. The head tilting, which may be done unconsciously, helps them realign their eyes to better see.

Fatigue

Chronic fatigue can also be caused by increased eye strain due to one of several vision issues which makes daily activities more arduous and stressful.

Learning or Activity-Related Symptoms

Not all symptoms are obviously spotted through everyday activity. Some only present themselves during certain activities, such as reading or playing sports.

Reading Difficulties (slow speed, poor comprehension, skipping letters or lines)

Numerous vision issues can make reading a challenge, and that difficulty can manifest in multiple ways. In addition to the symptoms listed above, if a child uses their finger to mark the place as they read, it can also be an indicator of a vision issue.

Poor Hand-Eye Coordination

While some might not immediately recognize that difficulties with activities requiring hand-eye coordination as a vision issue, it very much is. Hand-eye coordination relies on the brain processing information received via the eyes. A child with poor handwriting, or who struggles in sports, may well have a vision issue that is holding them back.

Summary

There is more to the vision than can be measured via a simple test. Someone struggling with a vision issue can exhibit one of several symptoms. Some of these are obvious in everyday activities, while others are more subtle and are only noticeable during certain activities. It’s important to be able to recognize these in your child, and to understand that these can signify a vision issue, so that they can be properly diagnosed and receive the treatment necessary to correct it. If your child is exhibiting any of these symptoms, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Learn More

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Exotropia is a type of strabismus where one eye turns outward. If you suspect that you may have exotropia, please see our optometrist for a treatment plan.

Understanding Accommodative Insufficiency: What It Is, Symptoms and Impact on Learning and Work

Accommodative insufficiency causes eyestrain and headaches when focusing on nearby objects. Visit our eye doctor for proper treatment.

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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.

This is not for the eye exam but for the frames selection portion. I brought my prescription from Kaiser here with my VSP insurance. The reception staff was very polite and professional. Manny helped me to pick out frames and explain my coverage. Very helpful and patient not like the individual at the other place I rated here on Yelp. I was running late and he still helped me and was not bothered at all. I am so glad I came here ..........very pleased.

Very professional staff and pleasant.