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PTSD, mild traumatic brain injury linked to vision problems in veterans
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CHICAGO — United States military veterans with mild traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder may be at risk for chronic vision problems, according to a press release from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Two studies presented at the joint meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology demonstrated that many veterans who have stress disorders or traumatic brain injury have undiagnosed vision problems.
A study conducted at the Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute found a higher incidence of dry eye syndrome in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder or depression than among veterans without these psychological diagnoses, the release said.
“Many vets won’t mention that their eyes always feel gritty or seem to water for no reason, unless they’re asked,” Anat Galor, MD, lead study author, said in the release. “Since dry eye can escalate and permanently damage vision if untreated, it’s crucial that health professionals who care for veterans with psychiatric diagnoses ask them about specific dry eye symptoms and refer them to an ophthalmologist if needed.”
In a second study, conducted at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Washington, D.C., 67% of 31 patients with mild traumatic brain injury reported chronic vision disorders such as diminished convergence and accommodation, double vision, floaters, and sensitivity to light.
None of the study’s participants had suffered direct eye wounds, but their vision remained impaired for more than 1 year after their traumatic brain injury, according to the release.