A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury from a jolt or blow to the head or body, causing the brain to move or twist inside the skull. This movement can lead to temporary changes in brain function. Vision problems are a common consequence following a concussion, with studies indicating that up to 90% of individuals with traumatic brain injuries may experience visual symptoms.
Specific Vision Symptoms After Concussion
Individuals may experience a range of vision issues after a concussion, often stemming from disrupted communication between the eyes and the brain. Blurry vision is a frequent complaint, making it difficult to focus on objects at various distances. Double vision, known as diplopia, can occur when the brain struggles to coordinate the movements of both eyes, leading to seeing two images of a single object.
Sensitivity to light, or photophobia, is another common symptom, causing discomfort or headaches. Eye movement challenges, such as difficulty tracking moving objects (pursuits) or quickly shifting gaze between points (saccades), can also arise. Problems with focusing, termed accommodative dysfunction, can make reading or close-up tasks challenging. Visual processing difficulties might manifest as feeling overwhelmed in visually busy environments or struggling with depth perception.
Understanding Recovery Timelines
The duration of vision problems after a concussion varies significantly among individuals. For many, acute vision symptoms begin to improve within one to two weeks following the injury. General improvement in symptoms is often observed within a few weeks to a few months.
Factors influencing the recovery timeline include the severity of the concussion and the individual’s age. Younger individuals, such as children and adolescents, typically see their symptoms resolve within about four weeks, though older adults may require a longer period. A person’s prior concussion history and overall health can also affect how quickly they recover. Adhering to recommended rest and recovery protocols can positively influence the speed of healing.
When Vision Problems Linger
While most individuals experience resolution of their vision problems, some may encounter persistent symptoms that extend beyond the typical recovery period. These prolonged visual issues, sometimes called persistent post-concussion symptoms, may require specialized intervention. It is important not to ignore persistent symptoms, especially if they worsen, new symptoms appear, or there is no improvement after several weeks or months.
Lingering vision problems can interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or working on computers, significantly impacting quality of life. Seeking medical evaluation is advised in such cases, as persistent issues may require specialized care. Early intervention for prolonged symptoms can help prevent long-term complications.
Approaches to Vision Rehabilitation
When vision problems persist after a concussion, specialized therapies can help retrain the visual system and improve coordination between the eyes and brain. Neuro-optometric rehabilitation, often called vision therapy, is a non-invasive program designed to address visual deficits resulting from brain injuries. This therapy involves customized exercises and activities aimed at improving skills such as eye tracking, focusing, and eye teaming.
Therapies may incorporate tools like prism lenses to help with double vision or balance issues, and specialized prescription lenses to enhance visual clarity and comfort. Physical therapy can also play a role, particularly for balance and vestibular issues that often interact with vision. A multidisciplinary approach, involving various specialists, is often considered most effective for comprehensive recovery.