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:
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.
