Concussions, Traumatic Brain Injuries & Vision Problems

Concussion is a type of mild brain injury that can cause a variety of symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, sensitivity to light, and difficulty concentrating. A concussion can also affect how the eyes and brain work together, leading to vision problems that don’t always resolve on their own. Even when scans and routine exams look normal, lingering vision problems can quietly fuel symptoms long after the initial injury.

Common Visual Issues After Concussion or TBI

Common visual changes and symptoms following a head injury include:

• Blurry or double vision or images appearing tilted.

• Eye strain and fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating or focusing on near tasks (convergence insufficiency)

• Trouble shifting focus between near and far (accommodative issues)

• Headaches, especially after reading or computer work

• Dizziness or motion sensitivity

• Light sensitivity

• Neck or shoulder tension from compensating head posture

• Inability to sleep

• Anxiety

If these symptoms persist long after the initial injury, they may be linked to vision rather than the concussion itself.

Why Vision Symptoms Persist

Head injuries / Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can interfere with the delicate pathways like visual and vestibular system that controls how your eyes move and work together. Because majority of the brain is involved in processing vision, even a mild injury can disrupt eye coordination causing extra strain on your visual system.

Some patients also develop vertical heterophoria , a small but impactful vertical eye misalignment. In many cases, special prism lenses help reduce this stress and bring quick relief.

While other concussion symptoms may fade with time and rest, vision-related problems often linger because your eyes and brain need to be retrained to work together again. Without the right treatment, these symptoms can continue for months or even years after the initial injury.

Our Approach to Post-Concussion Vision Care

At Focus on Eyes, we focus on uncovering and treating the visual side of concussion recovery.

Step 1: Comprehensive Testing

• Eye teaming and alignment checks

• Focusing ability, Eye movement and tracking tests

• Light sensitivity screening

• Integration with balance and vestibular evaluations

Step 2: Tailored Treatment

• Micro prism lenses and therapeutic tints

• Neuro-visual and balance rehabilitation

• Practical adjustments for screens, lighting, and daily tasks

Step 3: Ongoing Support
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• Regular monitoring of progress

• Fine-tuning lenses or therapy treatment plans

• Adjustments based on symptom changes

Why It Matters

Ignoring the visual impact of concussion can delay healing. Addressing it often helps patients recover faster and feel better day to day. Improvements may include:
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• Less dizziness and motion sensitivity

• Fewer headaches and less eye strain

• Easier reading and concentration

• Greater confidence with balance and movement
  
  

If you’ve had a concussion and are still struggling with vision problems—headaches, double vision, dizziness, or eye strain—Focus on Eyes can help. Our goal is to not only relieve your symptoms but also restore the quality of life you had before your injury.

Schedule an appointment with Focus on Eyes today and start your journey toward clear, comfortable vision.