How to Treat the Loss of Side Vision After a Stroke

Vision problems are common after a stroke, and they can include anything from light sensitivity to a complete loss of peripheral vision. Depending on the severity of the stroke, this issue may require a team of specialists to work out the best treatment plan.

Compensatory Strategies

Many of the current treatments essentially compensate for the lack of side. Rehab programs can teach you new strategies for everyday tasks, including reading, so you can focus your eyes and attention. Head adjustments, mazes, and computer programs can all be used to retrain the body and make it easier to develop a new routine.

Speciality Glasses

Dr. Errol Rummel is a physician who developed Side Vision Awareness Glasses (SVAG) after treating stroke victims in Wilmington, NC for many years. This Fellow Emeritus of the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association worked in private practice and consulted with multiple rehab hospitals, and he learned a lot about the everyday struggles that come with losing your side vision.

After seeing the limitations of the most common treatments, he devised a new system to treat patients more effectively. SVAG lenses are clear, relatively thin, and more comfortable to wear than traditional prism systems. They also offer better contrast sensitivity and a wider viewing area. Patients not only see better but they typically adapt to wearing these glasses faster. It’s a win-win for patients and doctors because patients see results, thus motivating them to keep up with their rehab treatment plan.

At The Low Vision Centers of North Carolina, our team can work with your doctors to determine the best solution for you. If you’re looking for a low-vision specialist in Wilmington, NC, contact us today.