When reading and screens get hard after a concussion
Advice from a concussion rehab clinician and an eye specialist
After a concussion, reading or looking at a screen may bring on a headache, blurry focus, dizziness or tiredness. Vision symptoms can also come from a direct hit to the eye. They may also stem from another problem that needs its own care. The first question is whether the symptom is new and urgent. The second is which activity sets it off and how to pace your recovery. A clear description helps your doctor pick the right eye, balance or concussion exam. [1, 2]
New double vision is an emergency
Get emergency care for new double vision after a head injury. Other signs need care right away as well. They include a severe headache, a newly enlarged pupil, new weakness, confusion or vision that keeps getting worse. Do not drive yourself. [2, 3]
Tell your care team about any blow to the eye, broken bone in the face or past vision problem. Calling it a concussion shouldn’t cause anyone to miss a separate eye injury. [2, 3]
Pin down what sets off symptoms day to day
Once urgent signs are ruled out, note when symptoms show up. It may be while reading, shifting focus, scrolling, riding in a car or moving through busy places. Write down how long you can do an activity before symptoms climb. Note how long they take to calm down. [1]
Ask if an eye exam, a vestibular assessment or concussion follow up care makes sense. A vestibular assessment checks the inner ear and balance system. Tell your doctor if you wear glasses or contacts and if your prescription changed recently. [1]
Ease back into tasks in small steps
Read or use screens in short stretches with planned breaks. Add time little by little as your symptoms allow. If symptoms climb, cut back on the task instead of pushing through. Ask for written changes at work or school, such as shorter reading blocks or fewer visually busy tasks. Go over any symptoms that last or get worse with your doctor. [1]
What to ask about your eyes and balance
- Were urgent eye and nervous system causes ruled out?
- Which activity brings on my symptoms time after time?
- What test or change should we try next?
Track reading time and recovery
Keep a brief log for your next visit. Note how long you read, what symptoms showed up and how long recovery took. [1]
Sources and further reading
This is general information from concussion rehab and eye care experts. Double vision that starts after a head injury needs an urgent exam. If your eyes keep feeling strained, describe it and get it checked instead of assuming it’s a normal concussion symptom.
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