BVD occurs when the eyes don't work together properly, leading to symptoms like double vision, dizziness, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
If you experience a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI), there is a significant chance that it will impact your vision, potentially leading to binocular vision dysfunction (BVD).
This page provides essential information on how concussions can disrput your visual system, the symptoms to watch for, and why a specialised neuro-optometric evaluation is crucial. If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended to visit both a doctor and an optometrist for a thorough assessment.
What is Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD)?
Binocular vision dsyfunction (BVD) occurs when the eyes are unable to work together efficiently, leading to issues such as double vision, dizziness, headaches, and difficulty reading. This condition is common following concussions due to the impact on the brain’s ability to coordinate eye movements.
How Concussions Cause BVD
A concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI) disrupts normal brain function due to a blow to the head, stroke, or neurological dysfunction. Studies show that at least 50% of TBI patients experience visual dysfunctions, with some studies reporting up to 90% incidence of post-trauma visual complications.
Children often suffer concussions due to sports injuries, while in adults, the most common causes include motor vehicle accidents and falls.
Many post-concussion symptoms, including dizziness, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing, stem from BVD but are often overlooked in standard medical evaluations.
Common Vision Symptoms After a Concussion
Binocular vision dysfunction can manifest in various ways after a head injury, including:
- Sensitivity to Motion
Feeling dizzy or uncomfortable when scrolling on screens or in busy environments. - Eye Tracking and Focus Issues
Difficulty tracking moving objects, reading, or maintaining focus for extended periods. - Eye Pain and Headaches
Persistent eye strain and headaches, especially during tasks that require focus. - Dizziness and Balance Problems
Trouble with depth perception, leading to difficulties in walking or standing. - Sensitivity to Light and Glare
Increased discomfort from sunlight, fluorescent lights, and digital screens. - Blurry or Double Vision
Difficulty maintaining a single, clear image, often affecting reading and driving. - Difficulty Judging Distances
Struggles with estimating distances, such as catching a ball or navigating stairs. - Reduced Peripheral Vision
Decreased awareness of objects appearing from the side. - Dry Eye Syndrome
Reduced blink rate, leading to dry, irritated eyes and blurred vision.
Why Standard Eye Exams May Miss BVD
A regular eye exam may indicate that your eyes are healthy and that your vision is clear. However, post-concussion visual dysfunction, such as BVD, affects how the brain processes vision rather than the eyes themselves. This means that standard eye tests may not detect the full extent of the issue.
At Adelaide City Optometrist, we specialise in identifying and treating BVD with advanced diagnostic tools like Eye-Sync, which measures eye movement abnormalities following a concussion.
How a Neuro Eye Exam Can Diagnose BVD
A neuro-optometric assessment evaluates complex visual processes beyond standard eye tests. This includes:
- Occular movement and coordination tests
- Postural and spatial awareness assessments
- Visual memory and processing speed evaluations
- Vestibular system integration (balance and eye movement connection)
- Motor function testing
Every injury is unique, so treatment plans are customised to the individual’s needs. Paul Fotkou, alongside Christina Karapetis, provides specialised evaluations and follow up care to restore visual function post-concussion.
How Long Does Neuro Rehabilition Take?
Recovery from binocular vision dysfunction depends on factors such as:
- Severity of the concussion
- Duration of symptoms
- Patient compliance with treatment
Most patients see improvements quickly, but full rehabilitation is a gradual process. The brain needs time to retrain and rewire itself after an injury.
Take Control of Your Vision After a Concussion
If you’ve experienced a concussion and are struggling with binocular vision dysfunction, don’t ignore the symptoms. Early intervention with neuro optometric rehabilitiation can significantly improve your vision, balance, and overall quality of life.
At Adelaide City Optometrist, we use cutting-edge technology to diagnose and treat BVD following concussions. Book an eye test today and begin your path to recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the symptoms of Binocular vision dysfunction??
Common symptoms include double vision, dizziness, headaches, poor concentration, eye strain, and fatigue.
How is Binocular vision dysfunction diagnosed?
BVD is diagnosed through a thorough eye exam, including tests for eye alignment and coordination. At Adelaide City Optomtrist, testing involves two appointments, each lasting one hour.
How can Binocular vision dysfunction be treated?
Treatment options may include prism lenses, vision therapy, and tinted lenses to improve eye alignment and reduce symptoms.
Who is at risk for Binocular vision dysfunction?
People with a history of concussions, strokes, or neurological conditions are more likely to develop BVD.
Is BVD related to other health conditions?
Yes, BVD is often associated with head injuries, strokes, traumatic brain injuries, and other neurological issues.
Are treatments for BVD covered by Medicare?
Currently, Medicare does not cover the cost of BVD testing or treatments such as prism lenses, but we offer payment options at Adelaide City Optometrist.