A traumatic brain injury (TBI), whether it’s caused by a fall, a vehicle collision, an assault or a sports-related event, can result in any number of injuries. This largely depends on what part of the brain was injured. We take for granted just how much the brain controls until it’s injured.
Among these things is our vision. A TBI can disrupt the communication between the brain and the eyes. Some 90% of TBIs result in some kind of vision dysfunction. Sometimes, this dysfunction is relatively mild and resolves on its own as the brain heals. Other times, the vision issues can continue and require specialized treatment and/or therapy.
How many ways can vision be affected by a TBI?
You’d be surprised. While many people experience some blurred vision and light sensitivity after a TBI, they may also have:
- Double vision
- Motion sensitivity
- Difficulty switching focus between something close and something in the distance
- Trouble tracking movement
- Peripheral vision loss
- Visual memory loss
This last one may seem like amnesia because it results in someone not being able to remember something they just read or where they just saw their cellphone. It can also cause problems recognizing people you know or places you’ve been before. Again, this shows how closely the eyes and brain work together.
Not all symptoms appear immediately
It may not be apparent immediately that you’re having vision problems if you’ve got other serious injuries. It can be a while before you realize that they’re not dissipating. The sooner you get evaluated by an ophthalmologist, the sooner you can get proper care, treatment and possibly needed rehabilitation. Vision dysfunction can prevent you from working, driving, reading or even cooking or taking care of your children.
All of this is why you never accept a settlement from an insurer or at-fault party until you know the full extent of your injuries and their effect on your life and your finances. While you’re working on healing, it’s smart to have experienced legal guidance to help ensure that you get fair compensation.