Can a Stroke Affect Vision? Understanding Stroke-Related Eye Conditions
- Posted
- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: April 4, 2025
At Blue Fin Vision®, we understand the profound impact that stroke can have on your vision. As a leading eye clinic in London, we’re committed to providing expert care for those experiencing vision problems after stroke. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how stroke and vision changes are interconnected, the various stroke-related eye conditions you might encounter, and the treatments available to help you regain your sight.
How Can a Stroke Affect Vision?
A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, leading to damage in the affected area. When this happens in regions responsible for visual processing, it can result in a range of vision problems. These stroke-related eye conditions can vary in severity and type, depending on the location and extent of the brain damage.
Common Vision Problems After Stroke
- Visual Field Loss: This can result in blind spots or the inability to see certain areas of your visual field.
- Eye Movement Disorders: Difficulty controlling eye movements, potentially leading to double vision.
- Visual Processing Issues: Problems with interpreting visual information, such as recognising objects or judging distances.
- Light Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to bright lights or glare.
Recognising Stroke and Vision Changes
It’s crucial to be aware of the symptoms that may indicate stroke-related vision problems. If you or a loved one experiences any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty focusing or tracking moving objects
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Visual hallucinations
Types of Stroke-Related Eye Conditions
This condition causes loss of vision in the same half of each eye’s visual field. For example, you might not be able to see anything to your left side with either eye.
- Visual Neglect
Also known as spatial inattention, this condition causes the brain to ignore visual information from one side of the environment, typically the side opposite to where the stroke occurred in the brain.
- Diplopia (Double Vision)
Stroke can affect the nerves controlling eye muscles, leading to misalignment and double vision.
- Central Vision Loss
Damage to specific areas of the brain can result in loss of central vision, making it difficult to focus on details directly in front of you.
Treatment Options for Vision Problems After Stroke
At Blue Fin Vision®, we offer a range of treatments tailored to address stroke-related eye conditions:
- Vision Therapy: Specialised exercises to improve visual skills and processing.
- Prism Lenses: Custom-made glasses to help compensate for visual field loss.
- Occlusion Therapy: Temporarily covering one eye to strengthen the other or reduce double vision.
- Botulinum Toxin Injections: To treat certain types of double vision by relaxing overactive eye muscles.
- Visual Aids: Magnifiers, large-print materials, and other assistive devices to help with daily tasks.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® for Stroke-Related Eye Care?
As a premier eye clinic in London, Blue Fin Vision® offers:
- Expert Care: Our team of specialist ophthalmologists has extensive experience in treating stroke-related vision problems.
- Advanced Technology: We utilise state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment methods for precise care.
- Personalised Treatment Plans: We understand that every patient’s needs are unique, and we tailor our approach accordingly.
- Comprehensive Support: From initial assessment to ongoing care, we’re with you every step of the way.
Our Convenient Locations
We offer our expert services at multiple locations to ensure accessibility for all our patients:
London:
- The Harley Street Eye Centre: Our flagship location in the heart of London’s medical district.
- Weymouth Street Hospital: Offering comprehensive eye care services in central London.
- London Eye Diagnostic Centre: Equipped with advanced diagnostic technology for precise assessments.
Essex:
- Phoenix Hospital Chelmsford: Bringing our expert care to patients in Essex.
Hertfordshire:
- One Hatfield Hospital: Serving the Hatfield community with top-tier eye care.
Take the First Step Towards Better Vision
If you or a loved one has experienced vision problems after stroke, don’t wait to seek expert care. Early intervention is crucial for the best possible outcomes. At Blue Fin Vision®, we’re committed to helping you regain your sight and improve your quality of life.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation at any of our convenient locations. Let our team of specialists guide you through your options and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Remember, at Blue Fin Vision®, we’re not just treating your eyes – we’re helping you see a brighter future. Trust London’s leading eye clinic to provide the expert care you deserve.
