CVI stands for Cortical Visual Impairment. It's a type of vision loss that occurs due to damage to the brain's visual cortex, the part responsible for processing visual information. This damage can happen before, during, or after birth due to various factors like:
- Premature birth: Babies born prematurely are more susceptible to developing CVI.
- Brain injury: Trauma to the brain, such as a stroke or head injury, can affect the visual cortex.
- Oxygen deprivation: Lack of oxygen during birth or other medical conditions can damage the brain.
- Genetic conditions: Some genetic disorders can affect the development of the visual cortex.
How is CVI different from other vision problems?
Unlike other vision problems like nearsightedness or farsightedness, CVI isn't about the eyes themselves. The eyes may be perfectly healthy, but the brain can't interpret the visual information it receives. This means that CVI can manifest in a wide range of symptoms that can be difficult to diagnose.
Symptoms of CVI:
- Varying vision: A child with CVI may see well in some situations but poorly in others.
- Difficulty with visual attention: They may struggle to focus on objects or faces.
- Problems with eye movements: They might have trouble tracking objects or making eye contact.
- Sensitivity to light and movement: Bright lights or sudden movements can be overwhelming.
- Poor depth perception: They may have trouble judging distances.
- Visual field cuts: They may only see a portion of their visual field.
How is CVI diagnosed?
Diagnosing CVI is a complex process that involves a thorough eye exam, medical history, and neurological assessments. An optometrist can play a crucial role in identifying potential signs of CVI and referring the child to a specialist for further evaluation.
Managing CVI:
There is no cure for CVI, but there are therapies and strategies that can help children with CVI develop their vision and learn to navigate their world. These may include:
- Vision therapy: Exercises designed to improve visual skills.
- Occupational therapy: Activities to help with daily living skills.
- Adaptive technology: Assistive devices like magnifiers or screen readers.
- Environmental modifications: Adjustments to the home or classroom to minimize distractions and optimize visual input.
Working with an Optometrist:
If you suspect your child may have CVI, it's essential to consult with an optometrist. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam and refer you to the appropriate specialists for further diagnosis and treatment.
