BVD, OMD, and TikTok: What’s Really Going On With Eye Movement Disorders?
September 10, 2025
Lately, TikTok and Instagram Reels have been buzzing with content about Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) and Oculomotor Dysfunction (OMD).
These short clips often list symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or trouble focusing — and it’s easy to think, “That sounds like me.”
But while social media can raise awareness, it can’t tell you whether you actually have one of these conditions. The only way to know is through a comprehensive eye exam.
What Is Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD)?
Binocular vision is how your two eyes work together as a team.
When they don’t align properly, it’s called Binocular Vision Dysfunction.
Common symptoms include:
- Double vision
- Eye strain or fatigue
- Headaches
- Difficulty focusing
- Depth perception problems
At every routine exam, we test binocular vision. If we notice a problem, we may adjust your glasses prescription or recommend vision therapy.
What Is Oculomotor Dysfunction (OMD)?
Oculomotor skills are the fine motor movements of the eyes: fixating, tracking smoothly, and switching focus between objects.
When these movements don’t work properly, it’s called Oculomotor Dysfunction.
Symptoms may include:
- Trouble staying focused
- Using a finger to keep your place while reading
- Skipping lines or words
- Eyes jumping around during reading
- Headaches or balance issues
Because OMD affects reading and focus, it’s sometimes mistaken for ADHD in kids. This is one of the reasons a thorough eye exam is so important.
Why It’s Easy to Get Confused
Headaches, difficulty focusing, and eye strain can come from many different causes — from simple screen fatigue to dry eye to refractive error. TikTok clips can make almost anyone feel like they have a diagnosis, but the reality is more complex.
The good news? We routinely screen for both BVD and OMD as part of a comprehensive exam.
The Bottom Line
Seeing yourself in a TikTok video doesn’t mean you have BVD or OMD.
What it does mean is that your eyes deserve proper care — and a comprehensive exam will give you real answers.
📅 Book an appointment and let us check whether your symptoms are related to binocular vision, oculomotor skills, or something else entirely.
← Back to Blog