Dyslexia and ADHD are two common learning and attention disorders that can affect children of all ages. While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for these conditions, recent research suggests that vision problems may play a role in their development.
In children, dyslexia is often characterized by difficulty with reading, writing, and spelling. ADHD is typically characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Both conditions can significantly impact a child’s academic performance and social development.
In some cases, vision problems may be a contributing factor to dyslexia and ADHD. For example, children with binocular vision dysfunction (BVD) may have difficulty aligning their eyes properly, which can make it difficult to focus and read. BVD can also cause symptoms that mimic those of dyslexia and ADHD, such as headaches, fatigue, reversing letters, poor attention span and anxiety.
Here are some of the signs and symptoms of BVD in children:
- Difficulty reading
- Poor handwriting
- Frequent headaches
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty focusing
- Trouble tracking moving objects
- Closing one eye to see better
- Bumping into things
- Losing place when reading
- Difficulty following directions
If you are concerned that your child may have dyslexia or ADHD, it is important to have them evaluated by a qualified professional. A comprehensive Binocular Vision exam can help to rule out vision problems as a potential cause of your child’s symptoms.
If your child is diagnosed with BVD, there are a number of treatment options available. In some cases, eyeglasses with prisms can help to align the eyes and improve vision. In other cases, vision therapy may be necessary to help the eyes learn to work together more effectively.
NeuroVisual Specialists of Florida and iSee VisionCare Can Help
With early diagnosis and treatment, children with BVD can often overcome their vision problems and lead normal, productive lives. If you are concerned that your child may have BVD, please fill out our Pediatric BVD Questionnaire. We’ll contact you about the results and help you set up an appointment if necessary.If your child is exhibiting any of the symptoms we mentioned above, it is important to have them evaluated by a qualified eye doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve your child’s vision and reduce the risk of academic and social problems. NeuroVisual Specialists of Florida and iSee VisionCare can help you assess your child’s vision and determine if BVD is a contributing factor to their symptoms. For more information, contact us today.
Dr. Erin Sonneberg
Dr. Erin Sonneberg, OD, received her Doctor of Optometry degree from New England School of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts in 2004. She completed her undergraduate studies at City University of New York, Queens College in 2000, where she graduated with honors in business. Dr. Sonneberg relocated to Boynton Beach, Florida, in 2006, and has been practicing alongside prestigious ophthalmologists in the area since that time.
