Your eyes are an important part of the nervous system. Although a standard optometrist can treat a wide range of vision problems, certain conditions are a result of neurological issues in the brain or nerves and will require the help of a neuro optometrist.

Vision Loss

Any type of unexplained vision loss, including loss of acuity in the central or peripheral vision, should be checked out by your optometrist. If damage or disease of the optic nerve or the vision centers of the brain are to blame, then neuro optometry rehabilitation may be able to help restore your vision or at least slow future vision loss.

Stroke

A stroke can have deleterious effects on your vision. Spasms or loss of muscle control in the eyes are common culprits of vision loss in stroke survivors, but neurological issues due to damage to the vision centers in the brain could also be at the root. Fortunately, there are post-stroke neuro optometry rehabilitation options that can help improve sight-related issues. 

Tumors

Certain types of tumors, such as those of the pituitary gland, can impact optic pathways. This leads to loss of vision, tracking issues, or issues with focus. Vision issues can persist even after tumor treatment is complete, particularly if neuro optometry procedures are not performed. Most oncologists will work closely with a neuro optometrist both before treatment of the tumor and afterward in order to preserve and restore as much as your sight as possible.

Color Vision Loss

Sudden loss or alteration of color vision needs to be assessed immediately, as normal color blindness and related issues do not develop later in life. Head trauma, tumors, and nerve conditions can all lead to color vision loss. A neuro optometrist can evaluate the cause of the color loss and help develop a rehabilitation and treatment plan in order to address it.

Eye Movement Concerns

Uncontrollable movement of one or both eyes, sometimes called a lazy eye, can be present from birth or it can develop later in life due to trauma or nerve damage. Fortunately, many eye movement conditions are fully treatable.

Pupil Variation

The pupils of both eyes should be roughly the same size and they should also dilate at similar rates when exposed to light and darkness. Variation in pupil size can be indicative of serious health and neurological conditions, so it is important to have your vision evaluated immediately if you develop pupil size differences.

Eye Shaking

Eye shaking or rapid movement is called nystagmus. It can be present from birth or it may develop later in life due to trauma, a stroke, or a condition like multiple sclerosis. Treatment options can help minimize nystagmus and aid with vision preservation.

If you suffer any of these issues or associated conditions, schedule an appointment with an optometrist so you can learn more about how neuro optometry rehabilitation can aid your vision.