Think of your brain like a computer's motherboard. When your motherboard is healthy, everything works well, including your vision. When this system "crashes" from a brain injury, it can affect many parts of your health, especially your eyesight.
In Canada, brain injuries are more common than many realize. The Public Health Agency of Canada reports that from 2006 to 2018, there were 399,376 hospitalizations for head injuries. Falls, especially among seniors, led to the majority of these injuries.
Dealing with a brain injury can be scary. At Lifetime Eyecare, we proudly offer exceptional and accessible neuro-optometry care to patients in and around Edmonton, AB.
The Link Between a Brain Injury and Eye Problems
Your eyes may be the windows to the world, but your brain interprets what you see. Imagine drafting and sending an important email. You double-check everything carefully to make sure it goes to the right person.
But you don’t know that the recipient's computer is broken. There is no way for them to see that email—this is what happens when the brain sustains an injury, and the process is disrupted.
The most common vision problems post-brain injury include:
- Blurred Vision: Objects may appear out of focus, making daily tasks challenging.
- Double Vision (Diplopia): Seeing two images of a single object can be disorienting.
- Visual Field Loss: Missing parts of your visual field, akin to having blind spots.
- Light Sensitivity (Photophobia): An increased sensitivity to light, causing discomfort.
- Eye Movement Disorders: Difficulty coordinating eye movements, affecting reading and depth perception.
Damage to the brain can significantly impact not only your vision but quality of life, making it essential to address them promptly.
Are Head Injuries Common in Canada?
Yes—in fact, brain injuries are a significant public health concern. The Public Health Agency of Canada says that from 2002 to 2016, about 235,471 people died from injuries. Of these, 22.6% had a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Unfortunately, many brain injuries go unreported, making it challenging to grasp the full extent of the problem. This underreporting underscores the importance of awareness and early intervention.
Vision Rehabilitation Post-Injury in Edmonton, AB
Lifetime Eyecare offers specialized services at our Edmonton clinic to help you recover and restore your visual function. We provide comprehensive support tailored to your needs, helping you get back to daily life with more confidence and comfort.
Comprehensive Eye Exams
Our eye doctors conduct thorough eye exams to detect visual impairments that may result from traumatic or acquired brain injuries. These exams assess not just your sight but how well your eyes work together, process information, and respond to stimuli.
Customized Vision Therapy
If your vision has been disrupted by a concussion, stroke, or other brain injury, we offer vision therapy. These programs include targeted exercises and activities that help retrain your brain and eyes to work in harmony. Our goal is to improve eye coordination, visual tracking, depth perception, and overall visual processing.
Prescription Eyewear
Our team may prescribe specialized lenses, including prism lenses or tints, that are designed to reduce symptoms like double vision, eye strain, and headaches.
Working Together for Healing
Vision recovery after a brain injury often requires a team approach. That’s why we collaborate closely with neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure you receive coordinated and comprehensive care.
When to See an Eye Doctor for Help
If you've experienced a brain injury and notice changes in your vision, it's crucial to consult an eye care professional. Early intervention is the best bet for successful treatment and can improve outcomes and prevent further complications.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Persistent headaches
- Difficulty focusing
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Trouble reading or navigating spaces
Take the First Step by Booking an Eye Exam
At Lifetime Eyecare, we're committed to guiding you through your recovery journey with expertise and compassion. If you or a loved one shows any of the above signs, it's time to schedule a consultation and get the clarity and care you deserve.
