Signs and Symptoms of BVD in Children: How to Recognize Them

As parents, ensuring your child’s health and well-being is always a top priority—and that includes their vision. While many vision problems can be corrected with glasses or contacts, there are other conditions, like Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD), that often go undiagnosed. Understanding the signs and symptoms of BVD in children can help you identify potential issues early and seek the proper care.

What is Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD)?

Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) is a condition where the eyes struggle to work together as a team to create a single, clear image. Normally, both eyes send images to the brain, which combines them into a single picture. However, when the eyes are misaligned—even slightly—the brain works overtime to merge the images. This misalignment can cause significant strain on a child’s visual system and result in uncomfortable symptoms.
 

In children, BVD can impact their ability to read, learn, and perform daily activities. Unfortunately, the symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions, such as ADHD, dyslexia, or general clumsiness.
 

What Causes of BVD in Children?

BVD often develops due to:

• Congenital Factors – Some children are born with slight misalignments of the eyes, which can worsen as they grow.

• Trauma or Injury – Head injuries, concussions, or other physical trauma can disrupt the alignment of the eyes.

• Developmental Issues – Abnormalities in visual development may lead to eye misalignment.
   

While BVD can affect anyone, children are particularly vulnerable as their visual systems are still developing. Early detection is key to preventing long-term complications.
 

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of BVD in Children

Recognizing BVD in children can be challenging since many symptoms are subtle or attributed to other conditions. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include:

Visual Symptoms:

• Frequent headaches, especially after reading or using screens

• Double vision or blurry vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Difficulty focusing on objects up close

• Poor hand-eye coordination or depth perception
   

Academic and Behavioral Symptoms:

• Avoiding reading or difficulty keeping their place in a book

• Complaining of words moving on the page

• Trouble comprehending what they read

• Fatigue, frustration, or irritability during homework

• Being easily distracted or having difficulty paying attention
   

Physical Symptoms:

• Frequent eye rubbing or squinting

• Head tilting or turning when trying to see clearly

• Poor balance or frequent tripping

• Motion sickness or dizziness

• Neck pain or discomfort
   

These symptoms can severely impact a child’s ability to learn, perform well in school, and participate in physical activities. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to seek professional help.
 

The Importance of a NeuroVisual Examination

Many standard eye exams are not designed to detect BVD, which is why a specialized NeuroVisual examination is essential for a proper diagnosis. At Old Saratoga Eyecare, our comprehensive NeuroVisual examination evaluates:

• Eye alignment and coordination

• How the eyes move together

• Depth perception and visual processing
   

By conducting a detailed assessment, we can pinpoint even the slightest misalignment and create a customized treatment plan to help alleviate your child’s symptoms.
 

Why Early Detection Matters

If left untreated, BVD can significantly impact a child’s academic performance, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. Early detection and treatment can make a world of difference in helping your child thrive. Treatments often include:

• Specialized lenses or prism glasses to correct eye alignment

• Vision therapy to strengthen eye coordination

• Ongoing monitoring to ensure lasting results
   

With the right care, children with BVD can experience significant improvements in their vision, focus, and overall well-being.
 

Schedule a NeuroVisual Examination with Old Saratoga Eyecare Today

At Old Saratoga Eyecare, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for children experiencing vision challenges. We have extensive experience in identifying BVD and offer effective treatment solutions tailored to your child’s needs.
 

If you suspect your child may be struggling with BVD, schedule a NeuroVisual examination with Old Saratoga Eyecare for expert care. Visit our office in Greenwich, New York, or call (518) 692-2040 to book an appointment today.