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About Attention Deficit Disorder
While attention-deficit disorder (ADD) is typically associated with distractibility and inattention, it can also impact vision. The DeyeNAMICS experts in California, Connecticut, Iowa, and Texas understand that children with ADD may struggle with visual processing, even if they have clear eyesight. The condition can lead to difficulties with tasks like reading or writing, as their brains may have trouble interpreting visual information effectively. Call the office nearest to you today to book an evaluation for your child, or use the online booking tool when you’re ready.
What is attention-deficit disorder (ADD)?
ADD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, stay organized, and manage time efficiently. It’s often characterized by inattention and distractibility without the hyperactive symptoms commonly seen in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
How does attention-deficit disorder affect vision?
Children with ADD can experience visual processing difficulties beyond basic sight issues. While their distance vision may be 20/20, they might struggle with eye tracking, focusing, or converging their eyes for close-up tasks like reading or writing. These problems occur because vision isn’t just about seeing clearly; it’s about how the brain processes what the eyes see.
ADD may disrupt the balance between two visual processes: spatial vision, which supports posture and movement, and focal vision, which aids in tasks requiring sustained concentration. Disruption in these processes can cause children to lose their place while reading, experience eyestrain, or have trouble maintaining focus.
What causes attention-deficit disorder?
The exact cause of ADD isn’t fully understood, but research suggests genetic, environmental, and developmental factors are strong influences. It can result from differences in brain structure and function, particularly in areas involved in attention, impulse control, and executive function.
Early childhood development, exposure to toxins, and a family history of ADD or ADHD can also play a role.
What are the symptoms of attention-deficit disorder?
Symptoms of ADD include:
- Difficulty maintaining attention
- Being easily distracted
- Trouble following through with tasks
- Forgetfulness
- Disorganization
Children with ADD may struggle with reading, writing, or completing schoolwork because of their inability to focus. They might also exhibit signs of visual processing dysfunction, such as skipping words or lines while reading, poor handwriting, and headaches from eye strain.
How is attention-deficit disorder treated?
The DyeNAMICS providers typically treat ADD with a combination of behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, and medications such as stimulants or nonstimulants.
For children with vision-related issues, the team can perform a comprehensive visual evaluation to identify visual processing dysfunctions and may recommend treatments like corrective lenses, prisms, or neuro-visual postural therapy to address visual challenges.
If your child shows signs of having ADD, book an appointment at DyeNAMICS today. Call or use the online scheduling tool now.