Citation

Sand KM, Midelfart A, Thomassen L, Melms A, Wilhelm H, Hoff JM. Acta Neurol. Scand. Suppl. 2013; (196): 52-56.

Affiliation

Section for Neurology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/ane.12050

PMID

23190292

Abstract

Approximately 30% of all stroke patients suffer from post-stroke visual impairment. Hemianopia is the most common symptom, but also neglect, diplopia, reduced visual acuity, ptosis, anisocoria, and nystagmus are frequent. Partial or complete recovery of visual disorders can occur, but many patients suffer permanent disability. This disability is often less evident than impairment of motor and speech functions, but is negatively correlated with rehabilitation outcome and can lead to a significant reduction in day-to-day functioning. To be visually impaired after stroke reduces quality of life and causes social isolation because of difficulties in navigating/orientating in the surroundings. A thorough diagnosis including targeted examination and later follow-up with eye examination and perimetry is essential in order to establish the extent of the visual impairment and to select the best rehabilitation strategy. Patients seem to profit from visual rehabilitation focused on coping strategies.

Language: en