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Vision Problems After Brain Injury

Kansas City traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients face a myriad of problems associated with their brain injury. Even if the initial injury does not directly impact the eyes themselves, TBI can harm the vision of the patient. The effects of TBI on the eyes can be long term. When the brain suffers an insult cognitive, neurological, and physical impairments can result.

Field of Vision
The field of vision is defined as the total area visible to the eye. Following a brain injury, half of the visual field can be lost. This condition, called hemianopsia, means a loss to the vision field on the right or the left on the sides. Some patients are aware of the loss of vision. Other patients experience what is known as "neglect", referring to the fact that they are unaware of the loss of the visual field.

Visual field loss is especially dangerous in TBI patients who are not aware that there is a gap in their sight. Accidents become a hazard as patients fall or bump into objects that they are unable to see. Additionally, TBI patients who suffer from neglect pose great danger to themselves and others if they get behind the wheel of a car.

Eye Movements
TBI patients may also experience a loss of control over eye movements. These movements involve the workings of the eyes themselves, not only the ability to turn the eyes themselves and look around. Smaller movements in the eye must work in seamless tandem. Brain injury can affect the ability for the eyes to work together. Some eye movements that can be impaired are:

1. Aiming and tracking of the eyes

2. Quickly shifting the eyes, also called saccadics

3. Focusing the lenses to view objects clearly

4. Right and left eyes working together, binocular vision


Common Problems
Vision problems that result from TBI include many conditions that affect the quality of life of the patient. Headaches and aching eyes may accompany visual tasks. Patients may suffer from difficulties concentrating, memory issues, and the inability to pay attention. Issues with comprehension while reading may surface as well. Other visual problems after TBI can include:

1. Blurry, double vision and glare

2. Photosensitivity

3. Difficulty with spatial perception

4. Text appearing to move while reading

5. Wondering eyes

6. Nearsightedness


Therapy
Vision problems can be helped by therapy. Many vision problems following TBI may be beyond the scope of a family doctor. Ophthalmologists and neuro-optometrists specialize in treatment and diagnosis of vision problems after traumatic brain injury. Various exercises, therapies, and glasses may help brain injury patients.

If you or a loved one has experienced a traumatic brain injury, you may have questions about your rights. The Kansas City brain injury lawyers at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys offer a no cost, no obligation consultation to help you find answers. Call 888-348-2616 for more information.

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• Posted on 12/26/2011Student Athletes Discussing How Concussions Affect Them Can Help Student Athletes in Kansas and Missouri
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