A stroke is a life-altering event that can affect many aspects of your health, including your vision. The brain and eyes are very closely connected, and while most people are familiar with the weakness and difficulty speaking that can often result from a stroke, the effects it can have on vision are less well-known and equally as serious. A stroke can disrupt these connections, leading to vision problems that significantly impact your quality of life.
Below, our Platte City eye care team at Outreach Vision discusses the impact of strokes on vision, types of vision issues you might experience post-stroke, and how we can help.
Understanding Stroke and Its Impact on Vision
Strokes occur when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, depriving it of oxygen. Because the brain processes visual information, a stroke can interfere with the way your eyes and brain communicate. As a result, stroke survivors often experience a range of vision issues, including:
- Hemianopia: This condition results in the loss of half the visual field in one or both eyes. It can make everyday tasks, like reading or navigating spaces, more challenging.
- Visual processing disorders: Some individuals struggle to recognize faces, objects, or spaces due to difficulties in how the brain interprets visual information.
- Eye movement issues: Strokes can weaken the muscles that control eye movement, leading to double vision or problems focusing.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Stroke
Vision changes can be one of the first signs of a stroke or a complication afterward. Watch for these warning signs:
- Sudden loss of vision or blurry vision in one or both eyes.
- Double vision or difficulty maintaining focus.
- Other symptoms, such as weakness on one side of the body, confusion, or trouble speaking.
If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Rehabilitation and Vision Care After a Stroke
Comprehensive eye exams are a crucial step in evaluating changes in vision after a stroke. These exams can identify specific problems and guide the development of a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment options may include:
- Vision therapy: Exercises and strategies to strengthen eye muscles and improve coordination.
- Specialized lenses: Glasses or prism lenses can help manage double vision and other issues.
- Rehabilitation programs: Collaborating with specialists in other medical and rehabilitative fields to holistically address post-stroke challenges, including vision issues.
How Our Eye Care Practice Can Help
Our team is here to support your recovery with advanced diagnostic tools and a compassionate approach to care. We specialize in evaluating and managing post-stroke vision issues, helping you regain confidence and independence.
If you or a loved one has experienced a stroke, don’t overlook the impact on vision. Schedule an eye exam today to take the first step toward recovery.