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Treatment
Balance problems related to vision are first aimed at correcting the underlying cause for the disorder. A combination of neuro-optometric rehabilitative therapy and balance or vestibular therapy can be an effective treatment for reducing or resolving these symptoms.
Vision & Vestibular
People with a vestibular dysfunction often have considerable trouble with balance, mobility, and perception of space if their vestibular system is disrupted by disease, ageing, head injury, or with no apparent cause. As a result, it may not be easy to operate at work or school or to complete ordinary daily tasks in surroundings with excessive visual stimulation.
More than 35% of adults aged 40 years and older experience vestibular dysfunction.
Common symptoms associated with vestibular disorders include:
Vertigo and dizziness
Imbalance and Spatial disorientation
Vision disturbances
Hearing changes
Cognitive and psychological change
Following are some common visual dysfunctions that may contribute to dizziness and balance problems:
Aniseikonia - A visual condition where there is a significant difference in the perceived size of images, one eye to the other. This can cause disorientation, eyestrain, headache, dizziness and balance disorders.
Vertical Imbalance - Normally, the eyes work in perfect synchrony. In this instance, one eye will aim higher than the other. To adjust to the vertical misalignment of the eyes, the person will frequently tilt their head to help align the eyes. This, in turn, can cause disorders in the vestibular fluid of the inner ear and lead to dizziness and balance disorders.
Binocular Vision Dysfunction refers to the inability of the eyes to work together as a team. The eyes need to aim together and focus accurately at a point in space and quickly change gaze between closer and further objects. How the visual system works as a team. Neural connections in higher brain centers control both components of near viewing(pointing and focusing). Brain injury to these neural centers can lead to eye teaming and focusing issues resulting in double vision and blurred vision – setting the stage for dizziness and balance problems.
Vertigo
The perception of movement or whirling – either of the self or surrounding objects.
The vestibular system supplies spatial orientation information, head position, vision, and proprioception. When there is a disruption in the vestibular system, it can result in moments of sensor conflict, resulting in problems such as dizziness, vertigo, and disequilibrium.
Vertigo can lead to instability and loss of balance. Other symptoms include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, & light-headedness. BPPV often presents with nystagmus, which is rapid, involuntary movements of the eye.
For more information, visit our blog or visit VeDA to learn more about Vertigo and Balance.