Binocular Vision Disorders

Binocular vision allows both eyes to work together to create a single, clear image. When this coordination is disrupted, it can cause eyestrain, double vision, and difficulty focusing. Binocular vision disorders can affect anyone and often go unnoticed - making early detection and treatment essential for clear, comfortable vision.

What Are Binocular Vision Disorders?

Binocular vision refers to the ability of both eyes to work together as a team, focusing on the same object to create a single, clear image. When this coordination is disrupted, it can lead to a binocular vision disorder, meaning the eyes are misaligned or unable to maintain proper focus. These conditions can affect depth perception, eye coordination, and overall visual comfort.

Common binocular vision disorders include:

• Convergence insufficiency: The eyes struggle to turn inward for near tasks like reading.

• Convergence excess: The eyes turn in too much when focusing on near objects.

• Divergence insufficiency/excess: The eyes have difficulty aligning properly for distance viewing.

• Strabismus: A visible misalignment of the eyes (one may turn inward, outward, up, or down).

• Amblyopia (lazy eye): Reduced vision in one eye due to improper eye teaming during early development.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Because binocular vision disorders often go undetected, recognizing the signs is crucial. Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but common ones include:

• Double vision or blurred vision

• Eye strain or headaches, especially after reading or computer work

• Difficulty focusing or maintaining concentration

• Closing or covering one eye to see better

• Poor depth perception or clumsiness

• Fatigue or discomfort during near tasks

If left untreated, these issues can impact daily activities, reading ability, academic performance, and even balance.

Diagnosing Binocular Vision Disorders

At Coastal VisionCare, our comprehensive eye exams go beyond checking for 20/20 vision. We evaluate how your eyes work together, measuring alignment, focusing ability, and tracking movements. Many binocular vision disorders can’t be detected with a standard vision screening, making routine, full-scope eye exams essential - especially for children or adults experiencing visual discomfort or academic struggles.

Treatment and Management Options

The good news is that binocular vision disorders are highly treatable once diagnosed. Depending on the underlying cause, your optometrist may recommend:
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• Prism lenses: Special lenses that help align the eyes for more comfortable vision.

• Corrective lenses: Glasses or contact lenses to address refractive errors that contribute to eye strain.

Dr. Harris provides personalized treatment plans to restore comfortable, single, and clear vision for both children and adults.

​​​​​​​Restore Clear, Comfortable Vision at Coastal VisionCare

Binocular vision disorders can impact your ability to focus, read, and see comfortably, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, these issues are highly manageable. Regular eye exams are key to detecting problems early and restoring proper eye coordination.

If you or your child struggle with eye strain, double vision, or reading discomfort, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Coastal VisionCare to identify and address the issue effectively.