Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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Reduced vision from brain injury around birth

In cerebral visual impairment, the brain processes images less well because of injury or a developmental problem around birth. The eyes may look normal. Vision often varies with busy surroundings, fatigue and the task.

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In cerebral visual impairment, the brain processes images less well because of injury or a developmental problem around birth. The eyes may look normal. Vision often varies with busy surroundings, fatigue and the task.

  • Variable visual behaviour: seeing something one moment and later being unable to find the same object.
  • Difficulty recognising a face or object in a crowded, busy environment.
  • Present one familiar object at a time against an uncluttered background.
  • Allow enough time to look and respond after a question or new image.
  • Ask for assessment if a child who had a difficult start around birth rarely looks at things, often bumps into things or seems unable to recognise images.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

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Further reading

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Squint in childrenWith a squint, the eyes do not always look at the same point. One eye may turn inwards, outwards, upwards or downwards. Early assessment matters because the brain can suppress the image from one eye, leading to a lazy eye and permanently reduced vision.
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Reduced vision in adultsReduced vision in adults can result from a focusing error, cataract or eye disease, but sometimes from a retinal problem or stroke. Gradually blurred vision needs investigation; sudden sight loss, flashes with a curtain or sight loss with neurological deficits is urgent.
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Lazy eyeA lazy eye, also called amblyopia, means vision in one eye does not develop properly, even though the eye itself may look almost normal. This mainly happens during childhood, while the brain is still learning to process images. Early recognition and consistent treatment matter because recovery is more likely while vision is developing. Causes may include a squint, different focusing strengths between the eyes or blocked vision. Call immediately for a new white pupil, sudden new squint, drooping eyelid, sudden vision loss or a child suddenly looking at things differently.