What to Expect During the NeuroVisual Exam and How it Works

"Binocular Vision Dysfunction," or BVD, is a term that may be unfamiliar to many. Despite the unfamiliarity, it's an issue that affects a significant segment of the population Understanding BVD is the first step towards managing and treating it. Awareness of this condition is growing, and so are the resources and treatments available. One such treatment is the NeuroVisual Exam, a specialized form of eye examination that can diagnose and help manage BVD.
 

Common BVD Symptoms

BVD symptoms can vary from person to person but generally revolve around issues of vision, balance, and spatial orientation. These symptoms can occur individually or in combination. They can also range in severity, from mild discomfort to severe, life-disrupting problems.

Individuals who suffering from BVD often experience eyestrain, headaches, and blurred or double vision. These visual disturbances can lead to difficulties in reading, working on a computer, or other visually intensive tasks. BVD can also cause problems with balance, leading to unsteadiness, clumsiness, and a tendency to bump into objects.

In addition to these physical symptoms, BVD can also have psychological effects. The constant struggle to correct visual misalignment can cause anxiety, especially in crowded or visually complex environments. BVD sufferers may also experience a general sense of unease and disorientation, often described as feeling "out of sync" with their surroundings.

What is the NeuroVisual Exam?

The NeuroVisual Exam is a comprehensive eye examination designed to diagnose BVD. Unlike a standard eye exam, which primarily focuses on identifying refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness, the NeuroVisual Exam goes a step further. It aims to detect the minute eye misalignments that characterize BVD.

This examination is performed by specially trained optometrists using state-of-the-art equipment. The NeuroVisual Exam is a highly detailed and exhaustive process that can take up to two hours to complete. Despite its lengthy duration, it's a non-invasive and painless procedure.

The NeuroVisual Exam not only helps in diagnosing BVD but also determines the degree of misalignment. This information is crucial in formulating a personalized treatment plan for the patient. The ultimate goal of the NeuroVisual Exam is to alleviate the distressing symptoms of BVD and improve the patient's quality of life.

How Does the NeuroVisual Exam Work?

Wondering how the NeuroVisual Exam works? The process begins with a detailed clinical history, where the optometrist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any previous vision problems. This information helps the optometrist understand your specific situation and tailor the examination accordingly.

The next step involves several visual tests. These tests measure visual acuity, eye movement, and the alignment of the eyes. The optometrist will use specialized equipment to identify even the tiniest eye misalignments. The tests also assess other aspects of visual function, such as depth perception and peripheral vision.

Lastly, the optometrist will conduct a microscopic examination of the eyes. This examination can reveal any physical abnormalities that might be contributing to the visual misalignment. All these diagnostic steps combined provide the optometrist with a comprehensive insight into your visual system, allowing them to diagnose BVD accurately and effectively.

Benefits of the NeuroVisual Exam for BVD

The benefits of the NeuroVisual Exam for BVD are numerous. Firstly, it gives an accurate diagnosis. BVD is often misdiagnosed or overlooked because its symptoms overlap with many other conditions. The NeuroVisual Exam, with its detailed testing procedures, can detect BVD even in cases where other examinations have failed.

Secondly, the NeuroVisual Exam allows for personalized treatment. Once the optometrist has identified the exact degree and type of eye misalignment, they can prescribe customized prism glasses. These glasses help correct the misalignment, relieving the brain of the burden of continuously trying to adjust the eyes.

Finally, the NeuroVisual Exam can significantly improve the quality of life for BVD patients. By alleviating the distressing symptoms of BVD, patients can resume their normal activities without discomfort or anxiety. Many patients report a dramatic reduction in headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms following treatment.

Conclusion

BVD is a condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. However, with increasing awareness and advancements in diagnosis and treatment methods, there is hope for those suffering from it. The NeuroVisual Exam is a game-changer in the field of eye care, offering an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment for BVD.

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the BVD symptoms, consider scheduling a NeuroVisual Exam. Visit Heights Dizziness and Headaches in our Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey office. We provide complete eye care services for the whole family. Call (201) 288-1109 to schedule an appointment today.