ADHD

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is characterised by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty maintaining focus. Symptoms can begin as early as age 3 and are typically recognised by the time a child reaches 12. The severity of ADHD varies, ranging from mild to moderate or severe, depending on a child’s behavioural patterns.

Front view boy eye checkup

Common Signs of ADHD in Children:

  • Difficulty sustaining attention
  • Struggles with concentration and focus
  • Excessive physical activity (frequent running, jumping, or climbing)
  • Impatience, especially when waiting for their turn
  • Interrupting conversations or speaking out of turn
  • Frequently losing place when reading
  • Avoiding close-up tasks
  • Poor performance in sports

Interestingly, many symptoms of ADHD closely resemble those of functional vision disorders.

Could It Be a Vision Problem Instead?

Functional vision issues can impact a child’s ability to concentrate and process visual information effectively. Fortunately, these problems are detectable and treatable. In cases where a vision-related issue is causing attention difficulties, addressing the visual problem may reduce or even eliminate the need for ADHD-specific treatments.

This is why it’s essential to rule out functional vision deficiencies before assuming a child has ADHD.

Next Steps

A child experiencing attention challenges may have a vision problem, ADHD, or even both. The key to proper treatment is identifying the root cause. Scheduling a comprehensive functional vision exam is a crucial first step in determining the best course of action.