Children rely heavily on their vision to learn, play, and explore the world around them, but when something is not quite right with how their eyes work together, it can have a serious impact on their development. Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) is a common and often overlooked condition in which the eyes are slightly misaligned, making it difficult for them to function as a team.
Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) is a condition where the eyes struggle to work together as a team, causing a variety of symptoms that can be especially challenging for children. When the eyes are not properly aligned, even by the smallest amount, it can interfere with how visual information is processed. This misalignment may result in headaches, blurred vision, double vision, poor concentration, difficulty reading, dizziness, and even behavioral issues that mimic ADHD.
Because children often don't have the words to explain what they’re experiencing, BVD may go undiagnosed for years. Many may be told their vision is “normal” during standard eye exams, even though they continue to struggle with tasks that require visual coordination. These symptoms can affect school performance, confidence, and overall quality of life.
If your child is experiencing any of the following, it may be worth exploring whether BVD is the underlying issue:
• Frequent headaches or eye strain
• Trouble reading or skipping lines
• Poor attention span
• Difficulty with coordination or balance
• Motion sickness or dizziness
• Avoidance of near work or screen time
• Complaints of blurred or double vision
Because these symptoms often overlap with other learning and developmental disorders, it’s important to have a comprehensive NeuroVisual examination to determine the cause.
Micro-prism lenses are specially designed to correct the small misalignments in the eyes that contribute to BVD. Unlike standard lenses, these glasses contain a prismatic component that gently shifts the image seen by each eye so they align more comfortably.
Once fitted with the appropriate micro-prism lenses, children often experience fast and significant improvements. Reading becomes easier, concentration improves, and headaches or visual discomfort may quickly subside. These lenses don’t just help with vision, they can positively impact academic performance, self-esteem, and behavior.
Binocular Vision Dysfunction can significantly affect a child’s ability to learn and function comfortably in their daily life. Fortunately, with the right diagnosis and the use of micro-prism lenses, many children find lasting relief and improved performance both in and out of the classroom.
If your child is showing signs of Binocular Vision Dysfunction, schedule a NeuroVisual examination at Federal Hill Eye Care today. Visit our office in Baltimore, Maryland, or call (410) 752-8208 to book an appointment.