Persistent visual disturbances after concussion

BACKGROUND: Ocular dysfunction, including eye movement defects, has been documented in up to 69% of patients with concussion. However, standard sports-related concussion assessment protocols do not typically include any clinical examination of the ocular system. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to inform general practitioners (GPs) about ocular defects associated with concussion, identify test procedures and highlight the important role of GPs within the concussion paradigm. DISCUSSION: Ocular dysfunction that commonly occurs with concussion includes abnormalities of accommodation, convergence, saccades and smooth pursuits. This may cause blurred vision, double vision, ocular pain and difficulty with close work. Symptoms can severely affect daily work, school or play activities. Patients complaining of extended ocular symptoms following concussion should be referred to an ophthalmologist for a complete ocular assessment.