Post-Stroke Vision Therapy

How Does a Stroke Affect Vision?

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, sometimes leading to brain damage. This impact can result in a host of challenges, including weakness or paralysis, memory and speech difficulties, confusion, balance issues, and vision changes.

Possible vision changes include:

• Binocular Vision Issues

  Binocular vision, which allows the brain to merge images from both eyes into a single, clear image, may be affected after a stroke. This can lead to double vision, depth perception problems, headaches, eyestrain, and difficulty with tasks like driving.

• Visual Field Loss

  Some individuals may experience loss of peripheral vision, causing a partial or complete blind spot in their visual field.

• Ocular Motor Dysfunction

  This condition can disrupt smooth eye movements, making reading and walking more challenging.

• Strabismus

  Also known as "crossed eyes," strabismus affects eye alignment and can impact vision.

• Visual Perceptual and Processing Deficits

  Difficulties in processing visual information in the brain can lead to perceptual issues.

When to Consider Vision Therapy After a Stroke

• At the Onset of Visual Changes

  When you start experiencing visual changes after a stroke, incorporating vision therapy into your recovery plan early on can help you regain lost visual function.

• Persistent Visual Symptoms

  If vision problems persist or worsen as you recover from a stroke, it's crucial to address them promptly. Vision therapy can help manage and improve these persistent symptoms.

• Balance or Coordination Issues

  Post-stroke vision therapy can help with balance, coordination, headaches, and dizziness caused by visual issues after a stroke. It can improve your vision and overall health.

• Reintroducing Visual Activities

  Whether reading, using a computer, or enjoying hobbies that require visual focus, therapy can help you regain the confidence to engage in these activities comfortably.