Did you know that glasses can do more than just help you see more clearly? They can also be used to correct binocular vision dysfunction (BVD), a visual condition in which one eye is slightly out of alignment with the other. It’s almost miraculous that a simple pair of glasses with prismatic correction, or “visual orthotic devices,” as we like to call them, can be the solution to so many visual problems. This includes a binocular vision dysfunction known as vertical heterophoria (VH).
Why VH Is Often Missed
VH is a type of binocular vision disorder that occurs when one eye is on a different level than the other eye. While the brain does work to correct this misalignment so the eyes can focus correctly, the constant strain on the eye muscles as they work to keep retinal images aligned results in a variety of troubling physical symptoms. They can include headaches, neck aches, balance issues, dizziness and reading comprehension problems, just to name a few.
Unfortunately, this condition is just not something that’s commonly taught about in optometry school, and because it’s not well-known even to trained eye doctors, it’s often missed because it’s not being looked for. When patients with BVD are located early on, a great deal of suffering can be alleviated. This is especially true for those with learning disabilities, as it’s well-documented that children with learning difficulties often have BVD. That’s why Drs. Cheryl Berger Israeloff and Marissa Zimmerman have made it their mission to spread the word about vertical heterophoria and other binocular vision dysfunctions.
How Prismatic Lenses Are Used to Treat VH
Do you have unexplained headaches, dizziness or anxiety in large, open spaces like malls and supermarkets? Have you seen many doctors, had a lot of tests taken and tried many different treatments – with no relief? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please consider your eyes. The solution could be right in front of them!
By adjusting the amount and placement of prism within prismatic lenses, the doctors at the Neuro Visual Center of New York are able to manipulate light before it enters the eye, making images seem like they’re on the same plane and essentially tricking the eyes into believing they’re perfectly aligned. Thus a simple pair of glasses can reduce or even eliminate the often debilitating symptoms of VH.
Get Help From Neurovisual Experts
If you think you or a loved one may be suffering from VH, give us a call at (516) 224-4888, or visit our website at www.nvcofny.com and fill out one of our BVD questionnaires. Who knows, a pair of glasses with prismatic correction may be just the medicine you need!
