Temporary Vision Loss After Concussion in Children

A concussion can cause temporary vision impairment in one eye?

Hello, a 4-year-old child has sustained a concussion due to a head injury.
A CT scan of the brain showed no bleeding, and an ophthalmologist confirmed that there are no issues with the optic nerve or retina.
However, the child reports that they cannot see out of one eye (only able to see light).
Could this be temporary blindness? Should we consult a neurologist or a neurosurgeon? Thank you, it has been about 5 days since the incident.

A-Yun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/02/21

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

If there is no improvement, it is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon, as there may be an injury to the optic nerve, and an MRI may be necessary.

Reply Date: 2019/02/21

More Info

Understanding temporary vision loss after a concussion in children is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. In your case, a 4-year-old child who has experienced a head injury resulting in a concussion may exhibit symptoms such as temporary vision loss, which can be concerning for parents.
First, it is essential to understand that a concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that can affect various functions of the brain, including vision. The symptoms of a concussion can vary widely and may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and changes in vision. In some cases, children may report seeing flashes of light or may have difficulty focusing, which could explain the child's report of being able to see light but not clearly.

The fact that a CT scan has been performed and no bleeding was detected is a positive sign. However, it is important to note that concussions can still lead to temporary changes in vision or visual processing, even in the absence of structural damage visible on imaging studies. The visual system is complex and involves multiple areas of the brain, including those responsible for processing visual information. Therefore, it is possible for a child to experience temporary vision loss or disturbances following a concussion, even if the eye itself appears healthy upon examination.

In your situation, the child’s ability to see light but not clearly could indicate a temporary visual disturbance related to the concussion. This condition is sometimes referred to as "transient vision loss" or "temporary vision impairment." It is crucial to monitor the child's symptoms closely. If the vision does not improve or if other concerning symptoms arise, further evaluation may be necessary.

Regarding the appropriate medical specialty for follow-up, it would be advisable to consult with a pediatric neurologist or a pediatric ophthalmologist. A pediatric neurologist specializes in conditions affecting the nervous system, including concussions, and can assess any neurological implications of the injury. On the other hand, a pediatric ophthalmologist can provide a thorough evaluation of the visual system and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, temporary vision loss following a concussion in children can occur and may be related to the brain's processing of visual information rather than an issue with the eye itself. Given that the child has already been evaluated by an ophthalmologist with no findings of retinal or optic nerve damage, it is essential to continue monitoring the situation. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking further evaluation from a pediatric neurologist or a specialized eye doctor is recommended. Additionally, ensuring that the child has adequate rest and avoids activities that could exacerbate symptoms is crucial during the recovery process.

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