Concussions, often described as mild traumatic brain injuries, can have a range of effects on those who experience them. While many people are familiar with symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and confusion, there’s another aspect of concussions that deserves attention: post-concussion visual symptoms. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and recovery, yet they are not always widely recognized or understood.
What Are Post-Concussion Visual Symptoms?
After a concussion, the brain’s functioning can be disrupted in various ways, including how it processes visual information. This can lead to a range of visual symptoms that may include:
- Blurry Vision: Many individuals report difficulty focusing or seeing clearly, which can persist beyond the initial injury.
- Sensitivity to Light: Known as photophobia, this sensitivity can make it uncomfortable or painful to be in bright environments or to look at screens.
- Double Vision: Seeing two images instead of one can occur, making it challenging to read or perform tasks that require visual coordination.
- Visual Tracking Issues: Following objects or maintaining focus on moving objects can become difficult, affecting activities such as driving or playing sports.
- Perceptual Disturbances: Some individuals may experience visual distortions or illusions, where objects appear differently than they actually are.
Impact on Daily Life
These visual symptoms can have a profound impact on daily activities and overall quality of life. Tasks that were once routine, such as reading, using a computer, or driving, may become challenging or impossible. This can lead to frustration, anxiety, and a sense of isolation as individuals struggle to participate in activities they once enjoyed.
Furthermore, untreated visual symptoms can prolong recovery from a concussion. Effective management of these symptoms is crucial for optimizing recovery outcomes and preventing long-term complications.
Seeking Treatment and Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing post-concussion visual symptoms, seeking appropriate treatment is essential. An evaluation by our team of concussion experts trained in managing concussion-related visual issues can provide insights into the specific challenges and recommend tailored interventions.
Moore MyoWorx treatment of concussion-related visual issues includes:
- Assessment: A thorough analysis of your symptoms and measurements of specific muscles and function to determine the underlying root cause of visual issues.
- TM20 Device: Applied to the muscles on both sides of the spine from the neck to the low back to treat the root cause of visual symptoms.
- Exercises: Targeted to stretch and strengthen the key muscles involved in concussion-related visual issues.
- Homework: Education and guidance for building endurance and restoring function for long-term relief of concussion-related visual disturbances.
Lifestyle Strategies to Manage Post-Concussion Visual Symptoms
In addition to formal treatment, there are several strategies individuals can use to manage post-concussion visual symptoms in their daily lives:
- Rest: Adequate rest and minimizing screen time can help reduce visual strain.
- Use of Technology: Screen filters and apps that reduce blue light emission can lessen sensitivity to light.
- Organization and Planning: Breaking tasks into smaller steps and using checklists can help manage cognitive challenges exacerbated by visual symptoms.
Conclusion
Post-concussion visual symptoms are a significant aspect of recovery that deserve greater recognition and understanding. By acknowledging these symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can improve their quality of life and enhance their recovery journey. Education, awareness, and access to specialized care are essential steps in supporting those affected by concussions and their associated visual challenges.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to Moore MyoWorx concussion clinic for guidance and support. Together, we can ensure that individuals recovering from concussions receive the comprehensive care they need to regain their visual and overall well-being.