What are Visual Disturbances?

Visual disturbances include any change in normal vision, such as blurred vision, double vision, flashing lights, blind spots, loss of vision, or difficulty focusing.

These symptoms may arise from problems affecting the eyes, optic nerves, brain, or blood vessels supplying visual pathways.

Common Causes

• Head injury
• Concussion
• Migraine
• Stroke
• Optic nerve disorders
• Retinal disease
• Brain tumors
• Multiple sclerosis 

How is it Diagnosed?

Assessment includes:

• Vision testing
• Eye examination
• Neurological evaluation
• Symptom history 

Investigations

• MRI Brain
• CT Brain
• Visual field testing
• Fundus examination
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) 

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve:

• Medications
• Vision therapy
• Neurological treatment
• Surgical intervention 

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Seek evaluation if visual symptoms are persistent, recurrent, or sudden in onset.

Red Flags

• Sudden vision loss
• Double vision
• Vision changes with weakness
• Severe headache
• Stroke symptoms 

FAQs

Can a concussion affect vision?

Yes. Visual disturbances are common after concussion.

Is blurred vision always an eye problem?

No. Neurological conditions can also cause visual symptoms.

When is sudden vision loss an emergency?

Immediately, as it may indicate stroke or retinal damage.

When to Consult:

Prompt evaluation of visual symptoms can help protect vision and identify serious neurological conditions early.