Link between ADHD and Vision Impairment

"A new study sheds light on a link between noncorrectable vision problems and ADHD in children," reports Science Daily. "Results from a large survey of 75,000 children suggest an increased risk of ADHD among children with vision problems that are not correctable with glasses or contacts, such as color blindness or lazy eye, relative to other children. This finding suggests that children with vision impairment should be monitored for signs and symptoms of ADHD so that this dual impairment of vision and attention can best be addressed." Read more.

Diagnosing ADHD through Eye Movement

“Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed -- and misdiagnosed -- behavioral disorder in American children,” reports Science Daily. “Now a new study can provide the objective tool medical professionals need to accurately diagnose ADHD. The study indicates that involuntary eye movements accurately reflect the presence of ADHD.” Read more.

Vision Problems Diagnosed as ADHD

The number of children in the U.S. being diagnosed with ADHD is climbing at an alarming rate. But many experts feel that a significant percentage of those children may be misdiagnosed. In fact, their real problem may be reversible vision problems, said Dr. John Jacobi of Suburban Eye Care in Livonia, Michigan. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of children with a parent-reported ADHD diagnosis increased by 22 percent between 2003 and 2007, and the numbers have continued to climb. In 2010 alone, more than 10 million children in the U.S. were diagnosed with ADHD, representing an increase from 2000 of 66 percent. Read more.