Honoring Veterans on Memorial Day: Addressing Undiagnosed Binocular Vision Dysfunction

As we commemorate Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served our country, many of whom face unique health challenges as a result of their service. Among these challenges, undiagnosed binocular vision dysfunction (BVD) is a common yet often overlooked issue affecting many veterans. At Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc., we are committed to shedding light on this condition and offering effective treatments that can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected.

The Prevalence of BVD in Veterans

Binocular vision dysfunction is a condition where the eyes struggle to work together as a team, leading to symptoms such as double vision, headaches, dizziness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. For veterans, the prevalence of BVD can be notably high due to various factors encountered during military service:

1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Veterans are at a higher risk for TBIs, which can disrupt the normal functioning of the visual system. Even mild TBIs can lead to significant visual issues, including BVD.

2. Exposure to Combat Situations: The intense visual demands and high-stress environments encountered in combat can strain the visual system, potentially leading to BVD.

3. High-Stress and High-Stakes Training: Rigorous training exercises can place excessive demands on the eyes, contributing to visual system fatigue and dysfunction.

Recognizing the Symptoms

BVD can often go undiagnosed because its symptoms are easily mistaken for other conditions or attributed to general fatigue and stress. Some common symptoms include:

• Double vision or shadowed vision

• Frequent headaches or migraines

• Dizziness or a sense of imbalance

• Difficulty reading or concentrating

• Motion sickness or nausea

For veterans, these symptoms can be particularly debilitating, affecting their ability to reintegrate into civilian life and perform daily activities.

Treatment Options at Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc

At Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc., we specialize in diagnosing and treating binocular vision dysfunction. Our comprehensive approach includes:

1. Thorough Diagnostic Testing: Using advanced technology like the RightEye eye tracker, we accurately diagnose BVD by assessing how the eyes track and work together. This technology provides detailed insights that inform our treatment plans.

2. Vision Therapy: Customized vision therapy exercises help retrain the visual system, improving eye coordination and reducing symptoms. These exercises are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and can be performed both in-office and at home.

3. Prismatic Corrections: Special prismatic lenses in glasses can correct the misalignment of the eyes, providing immediate relief from symptoms. These lenses are meticulously crafted to address the unique visual needs of each patient, ensuring optimal results.

4. Neurolens Technology: Neurolens prismatic corrections offer advanced solutions for relieving symptoms associated with BVD. These lenses are designed to reduce eye strain and improve comfort, making everyday tasks more manageable.

Changing Lives Through Vision Care

For veterans, addressing undiagnosed BVD can be life-changing. Improved vision can lead to better overall health, increased independence, and a higher quality of life. At Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc., we are dedicated to providing personalized care that meets the unique needs of our veterans.

This Memorial Day, as we remember the sacrifices of our service members, let us also commit to supporting their health and well-being. By raising awareness about conditions like BVD and offering effective treatments, we can honor their service with the care and attention they deserve.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of BVD, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc. Together, we can work towards clearer vision and a brighter future.

For more information or to book an appointment, please contact us at (661)310-0603 or visit our office at 27201 Tourney Rd. Suite 100, Valencia, CA 91355.

Dr. David Antonyan, O.D.

CEO & President

Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc.