When To See A Neuro-Optometrist

A neurological condition, an acquired brain injury like a concussion, or even prolonged use of digital screens can affect your visual processing abilities. Changes to your visual system can cause symptoms such as double vision, dizziness, blurred vision, and headaches. They can also cause discomfort, balance difficulties, poor depth perception, and more.

A critical component of successful treatment and recovery is early diagnosis and treatment. Lingering vision issues can increase the severity of symptoms and prolong your resumption of normal daily activities.

What Is Neuro-Optometry?

The following outlines evaluation and treatment services:
 

• Examination of ocular health
   

• Examination of binocularity
   

• Visual processing evaluation
   

• Diagnostic services and other types of special testing
   

• Specialty lens fitting
   

• Coordination of treatment and care with other healthcare professionals which may include speech, physical, and occupational therapists.

An optometrist should be able to screen patients in need of these services. Once identified, a referral to the appropriate specialist like a Neuro-Optometrist is warranted for a full neuro-optometric evaluation. Treatment involves Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation.

About Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation

Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation is a personalized treatment protocol for patients with vision problems. The problems may stem from traumatic brain injuries, physical disabilities, and other conditions. It is a rehabilitation process for motor, perceptual, and visual disorders. This therapy aims to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
 

• Acquired strabismus
   

• Traumatic visual acuity loss
   

• Binocular dysfunction
   

• Diplopia
   

• Visual-spatial dysfunction
   

• Oculomotor dysfunction

About Dr. Amber Cumings and Dr. Delia Malone

Dr. Amber Cumings and Dr. Delia Malone are industry leaders in treating patients with visual problems. These include the conditions listed above. Dr. Cumings and Dr. Malone specialize in Neuro-Optometry at Clarendon Vision treating children and adults.

When to Seek Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation

Patients of all ages with neurological conditions or injuries should see a Neuro-Optometrist. Visual problems may interfere with your performance. Experts recommend a thorough assessment for anyone with a neurodegenerative condition.

You should note that vision issues can occur gradually over time or suddenly. Those with a slow progression can be particularly difficult to identify. This is because people adapt to their worsening vision over time.

If you have a neurodegenerative condition, you may not be aware of changes in your vision. An assessment can help you identify your current visual limitations. It can also serve as a vital baseline measure. Your optometrist can use the test to track future progression.

Many cases of brain injury can affect visual performance and the visual system. That said, not all changes lead to blurred vision. The presence and severity of symptoms can vary by patient. So, it is necessary to visit a Neuro-Optometrist following an acquired brain injury. You should do so even if your eyes appear to be functioning fine.

Why You Should See a Neuro-Optometrist

A thorough assessment is beneficial in identifying vision deficits. It can help identify issues that may go undiagnosed by other eye care professionals. Furthermore, early identification allows for early intervention.

Are you participating in occupational or vestibular therapy due to a brain injury? If so, you should see a neuro-optometrist as part of your rehabilitative efforts. After all, vision is one of the most dominant senses.

For more on Neuro-Optometry and Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation, call Clarendon Vision Development Center in Westmont, Illinois at (630) 323-7300 with any questions or to book an appointment today. You can also book your Neuro-Optometric evaluation online by clicking here.