Seeing the Light: Understanding Post-Concussion How to Treat Light Sensitivity
Dr. Kalie McCartin
Developmental and Neuro-Optometrist
Owner, Visual Processing Institute
Introduction
Concussions can cause a wide range of symptoms, from headaches and dizziness to cognitive difficulties. One less-discussed symptom is light sensitivity, which can significantly impact a person's daily life. While often overlooked, light sensitivity after a concussion is often linked to underlying visual processing issues. When I served on a rotation at the VA Hospital in Long Beach California, I was privileged and honored to treat military men and service women who had heartbreakingly suffered various degrees of brain injuries. Undoubtedly, the most common symptom that they had was light sensitivity and as they longed to get back to their military service or take on a career as a civilian, working on a screen now created a seemingly impossible hurdle for them to overcome.
The Connection Between Concussions and How to Treat Light Sensitivity
Binocular vision dysfunction, a condition that affects how the eyes work together, is a common consequence of concussions. When the brain struggles to process visual information, it can lead to difficulties with filtering light. This can result in heightened sensitivity to light, making everyday activities uncomfortable and even painful.
Common Binocular Vision Dysfunctions
Several binocular vision dysfunctions can contribute to light sensitivity:
Convergence Insufficiency: Difficulty turning the eyes inward to focus on objects closer to you.
Divergence Insufficiency: Difficulty turning the eyes outward to focus on objects farther away.
Accommodative Spasms: Involuntary spasms of the ciliary body eye muscle that is inside of the eye that can affect focus.
The Impact of Light Sensitivity
Light sensitivity can have a significant impact on quality of life. It can make activities like driving, working at a computer, and spending time outdoors difficult or even impossible. In severe cases, light sensitivity can lead to headaches, migraines, and even nausea.
Seeking Treatment and How to Treat Light Sensitivity
If you're experiencing light sensitivity after a concussion, it's important to seek professional help. A qualified eye care professional can assess your visual system and identify any underlying binocular vision dysfunctions.
Treatment for light sensitivity often involves:
Vision Therapy: Specialized exercises to improve eye coordination and visual processing.
Sunglasses: Wearing sunglasses with polarized lenses can help reduce glare and discomfort.
Adjusting Lighting: Modifying the lighting in your environment can make it more tolerable.
Conclusion
Light sensitivity after a concussion is a common symptom that can be significantly improved with appropriate treatment. By understanding the connection between binocular vision dysfunction and light sensitivity, individuals can take steps to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
Keywords: light sensitivity, concussion, binocular vision dysfunction, visual processing, vision therapy, eye health, headaches, migraines, sunglasses, lighting adjustments
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