You may also hear it called hemianopia.

The only difference between hemianopia and hemianopsia is in the spelling.

This article covers the symptoms and causes of hemianopsia.

Woman reading to man with vision loss

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Symptoms of Hemianopsia

Some people with homonymous hemianopsia may not even know they have it.

With hemianopsia, the structures of the eyes themselves are not damaged and are functioning properly.

Instead, the brain is not properly perceiving what the eyes are seeing.

Diagnosing Hemianopsia

Hemianopsia itself is diagnosed after an in-depth visual evaluation.

Is There Treatment for Hemianopsia?

Hemianopsia cannot be directly treated with medications or surgery.

Some individuals may wish to regain their ability to safely drive and may benefit from seeing a driving specialist.

These resources can also assist with providing emotional support and encouragement from others dealing with similar issues.

Summary

Hemianopsia causes partial vision loss in each eye.

It is not brought on by damage to the eye.

Instead, it’s due to a problem processing the visual information in the brain.

Hemianopsia can have many different causes, including stroke, brain inflammation, or a brain tumor.

Contact a healthcare provider if you or someone you know is showing symptoms of vision loss.

Treatment of an underlying condition like a brain injury or tumor may be needed in some cases.

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North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society.Homonymous hemianopsia.

2021;155:e847-e857.

doi:10.1016/j.wneu.2021.09.029

American Foundation for the Blind.Resources for adults new to vision loss.

UCLA Healthcare.Homonymous hemianopia in primary care setting.