A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that is typically caused by a blow to the head. While many people are aware of the potential cognitive effects of concussion, such as memory loss and difficulty with concentration, it is less well known that concussion can also have a significant impact on vision and balance.
Vision Disturbances
One of the most common symptoms of concussion is a disturbance to vision. This can present in a wide range of ways, including:
Blurry Vision
Many people who experience a concussion report that their vision becomes blurry or out of focus. This can make it difficult to read or perform other visual tasks.
Double Vision
Double vision, or diplopia, is another common visual symptom of concussion. This occurs when the eyes don’t align properly, causing a person to see two images instead of one.
Sensitivity to Light
Concussion can also cause sensitivity to light, or photophobia. This can make it difficult to be in brightly-lit environments and can cause headaches or eye strain.
Visual Processing Difficulties
Finally, concussion can lead to visual processing difficulties. This means that the brain struggles to make sense of what the eyes are seeing, leading to confusion or difficulty with tasks like tracking objects or reading.
Balance Impairments
In addition to visual disturbances, concussion can also cause impairments to balance and spatial orientation. Some common symptoms of balance impairment following concussion include:
Dizziness
Dizziness is a common symptom of concussion, and can make it difficult to perform daily activities like standing up or walking.
Loss of Balance
Loss of balance is another common symptom of concussion. This can cause a person to feel unsteady on their feet or to fall.
Difficulty with Spatial Orientation
Finally, concussion can lead to difficulty with spatial orientation. This means that a person may struggle to navigate their surroundings or determine their position in space.
Recovery from Concussion-related Vision and Balance Impairments
Recovering from concussion-related vision and balance impairments can take time and often involves a multidisciplinary approach. Some treatments that may be used include:
Vision Therapy
Vision therapy can be used to help the eyes and brain work together more effectively. This type of therapy may involve exercises to improve eye tracking, visual processing, or convergence and divergence of the eyes.
Balance Exercises
Balance exercises can be used to help improve coordination and stability. These exercises may involve standing on one leg, walking on an unstable surface, or using balance equipment.
Rest and Recovery
Finally, rest and recovery are critical components of healing from concussion-related vision and balance impairments. This may involve taking time off work or school, avoiding screens and other activities that may exacerbate symptoms, and engaging in stress-relieving activities like yoga or meditation.
FAQs
1. How common are vision and balance impairments following concussion?
Vision and balance impairments are relatively common following concussion, with up to 69% of people experiencing some form of visual disturbance and up to 86% experiencing dizziness or balance issues.
2. Can vision therapy really help with concussion-related visual disturbances?
Yes, vision therapy can be an effective treatment option for concussion-related visual disturbances. It’s important to work with a trained vision therapist who can help create a personalized treatment plan.
3. How long does it take to recover from concussion-related vision and balance impairments?
Recovery times can vary widely depending on the severity of the concussion and individual factors. Some people may recover within a few weeks, while others may take several months to fully recover.
4. Is rest really that important for recovery from concussion-related vision and balance impairments?
Yes, rest is a critical component of recovery from concussion-related vision and balance impairments. Overexertion can worsen symptoms and delay healing.
5. Are there any long-term effects of concussion-related vision and balance impairments?
In some cases, vision and balance impairments can persist for several months or even longer. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to manage symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Conclusion
Concussion can have a significant impact on vision and balance, causing a wide range of symptoms that can disrupt daily life. However, with the right treatment and a focus on rest and recovery, many people are able to make a full recovery from concussion-related vision and balance impairments. If you or someone you know has experienced a concussion, make sure to consult with a healthcare provider to develop an appropriate treatment plan and ensure the best possible outcome.
