When to Seek Immediate Eye Care After a Head Injury

Head injuries can affect more than just the head—they can disrupt vision in ways that might not be immediately obvious. Whether caused by a fall, sports accident, or other trauma, head injuries can impact how the eyes and brain work together. Knowing when to seek immediate eye care after a head injury can make all the difference in preserving and restoring visual function.
 

Common Head Injuries

Head injuries can occur in various ways, and even seemingly minor incidents can have significant consequences for vision. Some common examples include:
 

• Concussions: Often caused by sports injuries or falls, concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI) that can disrupt vision.
   

• Whiplash: Rapid head movement during car accidents can affect the visual system.
   

• Direct Impact: Falling and hitting the head on a hard surface can cause swelling or bruising in areas that control vision.
   

• Blows to the Head: Physical altercations or sports injury can lead to immediate or delayed vision problems.
   

How a Head Injury Affects Vision

A Head injury can significantly impact a child’s vision due to the close connection between the brain and the eyes. After an injury, children may experience blurred or double vision, difficulty focusing, or trouble tracking moving objects. They might also develop sensitivity to light or struggle with hand-eye coordination, making everyday activities and schoolwork challenging. 
 

These issues occur because a concussion can disrupt the visual pathways in the brain or impair the muscles that control eye movement. In children, these symptoms may not always be immediately apparent and could be mistaken for clumsiness, lack of attention, or behavioral changes.
 

Guidelines for Parents: When to Schedule an Eye Exam

If your child experiences a head injury, watch for the following signs that indicate the need for immediate eye care:
 

• Blurred or Double Vision: Difficulty seeing clearly or perceiving two images instead of one.
   

• Difficulty Focusing: Trouble concentrating on objects up close or far away.
   

• Light Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to bright light or glare.
   

• Eye Pain or Discomfort: Persistent discomfort in one or both eyes.
   

• Eye Movement Issues: Difficulty tracking objects, crossing eyes, or controlling eye movements.
   

• Changes in Behavior: Avoiding reading, drawing, or other visually demanding activities.
   

• Headaches: Frequent headaches, particularly when using their eyes for tasks.
   

• Unusual Eye Appearance: Misalignment of the eyes (strabismus), redness, or swelling.
   

Ignoring potential vision problems after a head injury can lead to long-term consequences that impact your child’s development and quality of life. Prompt evaluation and treatment from our specialists can address these issues early, improving recovery outcomes.
 

What to Expect During a Neuro-Optometric Evaluation

A neuro-optometric evaluation is a specialized eye examination designed to assess the visual and neurological impact of a head injury. During the evaluation, our optometrist will begin by discussing the child’s medical history, including details about the injury, any observed symptoms, and the child’s daily activities. Parents or caregivers may be asked about changes in the child’s behavior, such as difficulty concentrating, headaches, or coordination issues, as these can signal underlying vision problems caused by the injury.
 

The assessment will include a series of tests to evaluate eye health, visual acuity, eye alignment, depth perception, and the ability to track and focus on objects. Advanced diagnostic tools may be used to measure how well the eyes and brain work together, particularly for tasks requiring sustained visual effort, such as reading or using digital devices. In some cases, the optometrist may also assess peripheral vision and balance, as these can be affected by traumatic brain injuries.
 

Based on the findings, we will create a personalized treatment plan, which may include vision therapy, or corrective lenses. The goal of the evaluation is to identify and address any visual challenges that could hinder the child’s recovery or academic performance, providing a pathway for improved quality of life and overall well-being.
 

Take the First Step Toward Recovery Today

Head injuries can have a profound impact on vision, especially in children, where symptoms might be subtle yet disruptive. Recognizing the signs of vision issues and seeking immediate care is essential to ensuring proper recovery and preventing long-term complications. Our specialists are here to provide the care and solutions your child needs to see clearly and thrive.
 

If your child has experienced a head injury or is showing signs of visual difficulties, schedule an evaluation with Swoop Eye Care to ensure their vision and overall well-being are safeguarded for the future. Contact our office in Richfield, Minnesota, by calling (612) 488-1566 to book an appointment today.