A new study in the January issue of Optometry and Vision Science Journal suggests that children who’ve had a concussion should undergo comprehensive eye exams to see if they’re ready to go back to school. This is especially important, researchers said, for kids who struggle in school. “Moving forward, physicians treating concussed patients should consider the damage done to the brain,” Swanson said, pointing out that they should also consider “how long this will affect a child’s progression and learning.”
The new study included 276 kids with lingering symptoms 10 or more days after concussion. They were between 5 and 18 years old. Of these children with lingering symptoms, 46 percent had vision problems such as blurred vision. Academic problems were reported by 29 percent, the study found.