Beyond 20/20: Why Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) Might Be Affecting Your Daily Life

Dr. Seth Salley

Optometrist

Memphis native Dr. Salley founded Clearview Family Eyecare after completing his optometry degree and Ocular Disease residency at Southern Eye Associates.

Many people in Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, and Bartlett wonder why they experience constant headaches, eye strain, or even dizziness, despite having “perfect” vision on standard eye exams. The answer may lie in binocular vision dysfunction (BVD), a hidden issue that disrupts how your two eyes work together, often with life-altering consequences.

What is BVD? Seeing Beyond the Snellen Chart

Traditional eye exams test each eye individually for sharpness (20/20 vision), but butreal-worldd activities require both eyes to move and focus in perfect harmony. Binocular vision dysfunction occurs when your eyes struggle to align, focus, or work together efficiently. Even minor misalignments can force your brain and eye muscles to compensate, leading to chronic discomfort and reduced performance.

Common Signs and Symptoms of BVD

  • Persistent headaches or migraines, especially after reading or computer work

     

  • Double vision or shadowed images

     

  • Dizziness, motion sensitivity, or trouble with balance

     

  • Difficulty reading or concentrating; losing your place often

     

  • Eye strain, burning, or fatigue, even with the “right” prescription

     

  • Anxiety or discomfort in crowded or visually busy environments

     

  • Neck, shoulder, or facial pain from trying to align your head for clearer sight

     

Many people—children and adults alike—are misdiagnosed with ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, migraines, or even anxiety, when BVD is the real culprit.

Diagnosing BVD: How CFE Memphis Can Help

At CFE Memphis, we take a holistic approach to vision. Our BVD assessments go far beyond the standard vision test, using:

  • Specialized Eye Alignment Testing: Evaluates how your eyes move and focus together.

     

  • Vergence and Accommodation Testing: Checks how well your eyes can turn in/out and adjust focus between near and far.

     

  • Prism Trials: Prism lenses are used to determine if shifting images can relieve symptoms.

     

  • Symptom Surveys and History: Links your daily experiences to potential vision misalignments.

     

Effective Treatment Options

BVD is highly treatable. Solutions include:

  • Prism Glasses: These specialized lenses shift images so your brain and eyes can relax, reducing headaches, dizziness, and reading struggles.

     

  • Vision Therapy: Customized eye exercises, sometimes performed in office and at home, to strengthen coordination and alignment.

     

  • Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice: Adjusting workstations, lighting, and posture can further reduce symptoms.

     

RealLife Impact for Memphis Area Residents

Patients across Greater Memphis tell us that treating BVD has changed their lives—improved reading performance, comfort at work, safer driving, and relief from headaches or chronic pain. Parents notice their children read better and feel more confident at school. Adults experience less fatigue and renewed enjoyment of everyday activities.

Why Choose CFE Memphis?

We’re committed to uncovering and solving the root cause of your vision problems. Our team is passionate about helping children, students, professionals, and seniors achieve not just 20/20 vision, but comfortable, lasting binocular vision that supports real life.

If you’re struggling with unexplained discomfort or poor performance despite having “good” vision, BVD could be the answer. Don’t let this hidden disorder limit your life.

Contact CFE Memphis today for a comprehensive BVD evaluation—and discover comfort and clarity beyond 20/20.

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