ADHD or Eye Strain? Understanding the Connection

When ADHD Symptoms Mask Underlying Vision Disorders

Many children and adults who struggle with focus, attention, or learning difficulties are quickly labeled with ADHD. While ADHD is a real and common condition, emerging research shows that to 50% of children diagnosed with ADHD have an underlying vision problems like Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) and Vertical Heterophoria (VH) that contributes to their attention and learning challenges.

At Focus on Eyes, we aim to raise awareness about these often-overlooked vision issues and how they can impact learning, behavior, and overall quality of life.

Understanding the Connection Between Vision and Behavior

Our eyes are not just for seeing, they play a crucial role in how the brain processes information. When the eyes are not perfectly aligned, the brain receives conflicting signals, which can result in symptoms like:

• Difficulty maintaining focus

• Easily losing place while reading

• Headaches or eye strain

• Irritability or frustration during tasks

• Fatigue or difficulty completing schoolwork

• Poor handwriting

These symptoms often mirror ADHD, which is why many children and adults may be misdiagnosed.

How to Differentiate ADHD from Vision Disorders

Distinguishing between ADHD and vision-related issues requires careful observation and professional evaluation. Signs that vision may be contributing to ADHD-like symptoms include:

• Symptoms worsen after reading or screen use

• Complaints of headaches or eye discomfort

• Avoidance of visually demanding tasks

• Difficulty in school despite apparent intelligence and effort

• ​​​​​​​Poor depth perception

A comprehensive eye exam by a Neuro visual specialist can identify subtle misalignments and help determine whether symptoms are caused by BVD or VH.
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What to Expect During a Neuro Visual Evaluation

If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, it’s important to rule out underlying vision problems that could be contributing to their symptoms. At Focus on Eyes, a neuro visual examination is designed to do an in-depth assessment which goes beyond a routine eye exam and focuses on how well the eyes work together. The exam typically lasts about two hours and includes advanced testing methods that aren’t part of a standard vision check.

​​​​​​​If a binocular vision dysfunction (BVD) is found, customized prism lenses can be prescribed to gently realign the eyes. Many patients experience noticeable improvement in focus, and visual clarity soon after wearing them, without the need for long-term or expensive vision therapy.

To find out if BVD could be linked to your child’s ADHD-like symptoms, contact Focus on Eyes or schedule a neuro visual evaluation today.