If you’re wondering why your eyes hurt, there may be multiple factors at play. Prolonged screen time, poor lighting, or an incorrect prescription. However, there are times when a deeper condition could be impacting your vision and causing eye strain.
One of those conditions is called binocular vision dysfunction. Binocular vision dysfunction is also known as Binocular Vision Disorder and occurs when the eyes are unable to work together properly, resulting in eye strain, headaches, double vision, and other visual symptoms. It can affect people of all ages and can have a significant impact on their quality of life.
While BVD is a common condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, with the right treatment approach, it is possible to reduce the symptoms, improve visual function, and reduce eye pain. As an optometrist in Pueblo, Colorado, Joseph Gowen OD & Associates can diagnose and treat binocular vision disorder.
What are the Causes of Binocular Vision Dysfunction:
BVD can be caused by a variety of factors, including eye muscle imbalance, neurological disorders, eye injuries, and other underlying health conditions. Some common causes of BVD include:
- Strabismus (eye turn)
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Traumatic brain injury
- Concussion
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke
- Thyroid eye disease
- Diabetes
What are the Symptoms of Binocular Vision Dysfunction:
The symptoms of BVD can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms of BVD include:
- Eye strain and fatigue
- Headaches and migraines
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Vertigo and dizziness
- Depth perception issues
- Difficulty reading or concentrating
- Poor hand-eye coordination
What are the Best Treatment Options for Binocular Vision Dysfunction:
Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options available for BVD. The best treatment option will depend on the underlying cause of the condition, as well as the severity of the symptoms. Here are some of the most common treatment options for BVD:
Vision therapy:
Vision therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment option that involves a series of eye exercises and activities designed to improve the brain’s ability to use the two eyes together. Vision therapy can help to improve eye teaming, depth perception, and visual processing, which can significantly reduce the symptoms of BVD.
Prism lenses:
Prism lenses are specially designed eyeglasses that contain prisms in the lenses. These prisms help to realign the eyes and reduce the strain on the eye muscles. Prism lenses can be very effective in treating BVD, especially for those with a mild to moderate form of the condition.
Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation:
Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation is a comprehensive treatment approach that combines various therapies such as vision therapy, prism lenses, and other specialized therapies to help patients with BVD. It is particularly effective for those with more severe forms of BVD or those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury.
Surgery:
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat BVD, especially for those with a severe eye turn or other structural issues. Surgery may involve repositioning the eye muscles or other corrective procedures to realign the eyes and improve their function.
How does Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) affect children?
While BVD affects people of all ages, it can a significant impact on children, especially when it comes to their academic and social development.
Children with BVD may struggle to read, write, or concentrate in school, which can lead to frustration, anxiety, and a decreased interest in learning. They may also have difficulty with hand-eye coordination and may struggle with sports or other physical activities.
BVD can be particularly challenging for children because they may not be able to communicate their symptoms effectively. Younger children may not understand that what they are experiencing is not normal, and older children may feel embarrassed or ashamed to admit that they are struggling with their vision. This can lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment, which can further impact their academic and social development.
In addition to academic challenges, children with BVD may also experience social and emotional difficulties. They may feel isolated or excluded from their peers because of their visual symptoms, which can lead to low self-esteem and social anxiety. They may also avoid participating in activities they once enjoyed, which can further impact their social and emotional well-being.
It is important for parents and teachers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of BVD in children. Some common signs of BVD in children include headaches, eye strain, double vision, and difficulty with reading or other visual tasks. If you suspect that your child may have BVD, it is important to consult an eye care professional who can perform a comprehensive eye exam and recommend the best treatment option.
Early diagnosis and treatment of BVD can significantly improve a child’s academic and social development, as well as their overall quality of life. With the right treatment approach, children with BVD can learn to manage their symptoms and develop the visual skills they need to succeed in school and in life.
Treatment options for Binocular Vision Disorder in Pueblo, Colorado
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have BVD, Joseph Gowen OD & Associates, can help. Our office is located in Pueblo, Colorado and treats binocular vision disorder. We’ll start with a comprehensive eye exam and then present your best treatment options. Schedule an appointment and contact us today