Learning-Related Vision Problems

Vision has a direct impact on learning and concentration. Obvious visual symptoms with a high chance of impacting academic performance are blurred vision and double vision. However, less obvious symptoms, such as losing place while reading and fatigue, may indicate other visual dysfunctions that can be just as harmful to one’s ability to focus and concentrate. Vision problems which impact learning can be either developmental, stress-induced, or a combination of both. Testing that only emphasizes eyesight and eye health and does not evaluate all aspects of vision is inadequate and will not identify learning-related vision issues. One can be 20/20 and still have a vision problem. A complete developmental vision evaluation, including sensorimotor and operational testing, is necessary to evaluate the effect of visual issues on learning and school performance.

Treatment for learning-related visual problems does not address specific educational skills such as reading or writing, but instead improves the visual building blocks necessary to be able to focus, concentrate, and problem-solve. After a developmental vision examination, Dr. Nguyen may recommend therapeutic, stress-reducing lenses and/or optometric vision therapy to address learning-related vision problems.

Brain Injuries

Dr. Nguyen frequently sees patients with brain injuries and/or neurological disorders, including those with stroke, TBI, concussions, cerebral palsy, and various genetic disorders. Because of the brain’s role in vision, visual dysfunctions are likely present in individuals with acquired or congenital brain disorders and often persist as an interference for these patients. A thorough functional assessment of vision (minimum 90 minutes) is recommended to determine the impact of the injury/condition on activities of daily living and everyday performance.

Ophthalmic lenses, including prisms, can be prescribed to reduce or eliminate double vision or to positively influence balance, gait, and movement. Optometric vision therapy is offered to provide these patients with an opportunity to fortify old neural networks and establish new neural pathways in the brain to regain limited function. Brain plasticity decreases as we age, but it is never too late, as was once thought.

Concussions

Dr. Nguyen has treated post-concussion patients for more than 20 years. From subtle bumps of the head to major motor vehicle accidents, a concussion has the potential to be a life-altering event. Many brain functions are potentially affected, including vision. When vision does not work as efficiently as before the injury, every task is a challenge that requires effort and energy. Unfortunately, the visual problems resulting from these injuries are often not correctly diagnosed and treated. Being labeled as “20/20” does not fully indicate good vision. Along with vestibular problems, the visual effects of a concussion are typically what prevents the patient from returning to pre-concussion status.
Post-concussive visual symptoms:

• Unusual fatigue with reading, computer work, screen time, and/or driving
• Headaches, dizziness, or nausea with above activities
• Sensitivity to light and noise, easily overstimulated
• Discomfort with normal movement of everyday objects within view
• Periodic episodes of blurry vision when reading

Many patients can be helped immediately with tinted lenses, prism glasses, and/or a change of prescription to their everyday glasses. We also offer neuro-optometric vision therapy and rehabilitation. However, the treatment program often increases the intensity of concussion symptoms, so immediately starting a treatment program may not always be the best course of action. Dr. Nguyen will make his best recommendation.

Sports Vision

Optimum visual abilities are critical to the success of any athlete. Both casual and serious athletes must develop their vision in the same way they must develop and improve their bodies. Visual deficiencies can limit athletic performance and enhancing sensorimotor skills and processing can result in faster and more accurate reactions. Just as vision can be developed and normalized in individuals with vision problems, those with normal visual skills can be enhanced even further, beyond expected averages. Many professional sports teams now utilize a sports vision specialist.