August 13, 2024

Is it Really Attention Deficit Disorder?

Could Vision Problems Cause an Attention Deficit Disorder Diagnosis? There are two points that will help here: 1.  Attention deficit disorder is a diagnosis of exclusion.  There is no specific test for it, as it…
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Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy

Could Vision Problems Cause an Attention Deficit Disorder Diagnosis?

There are two points that will help here:

1.  Attention deficit disorder is a diagnosis of exclusion.  There is no specific test for it, as it is simply a collection of behavioural symptoms.  As a diagnosis of exclusion, all other causes for the behaviour must be ruled out.

2.  Behaviour is almost always secondary.

Imagine yourself riding a bicycle with a group of other people of similar fitness.  Now if the tires on your bicycle were flat and the wheels were bent, how long do you think you would like to ride for in comparison to the other people? Do you have to put more energy in than the other riders just to get the same return? Do you think you would be able to ride for as long as the others? How frustrated might you become? Would you like to ride your bike?

Is it your behaviour or the bicycle?

Your behavior will likely show that you tire out easily, that you may avoid biking, or that you dislike it.   Is your behaviour the problem, or is it simply the product of an underlying issue with your bicycle? This is remarkably similar to a person?s visual system.  If the coordination of the eyes, and the processing of the visual input are very inefficient, it will make it more difficult for the person to maintain focus, or to stay on task.

The bicycle can be seen

With a bicycle we can clearly see and understand what is causing the problems.  No parent would be yelling at their child to try harder if they could clearly see what was wrong.  No parent would think of letting their child struggle with self esteem issues because they couldn?t keep up to the other riders.  More importantly, nobody would diagnose the child with a disorder or syndrome based on their poor cycling abilities.

Visual problems causing attention problems

So if it?s been established that:

  • Visual problems can cause the same symptoms as used to diagnose attention deficit disorder
  • Attention deficit disorder diagnosis requires the exclusion of ?developmental sensory problems? (see DSM-V)

Then it should follow that the standard of care should be to have all visual skills tested before considering an attention deficit mis-diagnosis.  In the cases where it is an underlying visual disorder, this will prevent mis-diagnosis, prevent mis-medication of children and adults, and allow them to reach their full potential.

The examination should cover tracking abilities, visual processing, and an in depth look at how the eyes coordinate together.

Read more about what an examination should cover Contact Us

Please visit the education area to read more about vision and attention Education.

Yours in vision, Dr. Cam

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Our Victoria Practice
Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy
200-775 Topaz Ave
Victoria, BC V8T 4Z7
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Our Nanaimo Practice
Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy
205-1825 Bowen Rd
Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H1
Phone
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Fax
250-412-6459
Email
(Do not send personal health information by email.)
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  • What is Neuro-Optometry?

    Neuro-Optometry focuses on the intricate connection between your visual system and the brain, extending beyond traditional eye care to assess functional vision. This branch of optometry examines how your eyes track, move, coordinate, and how your brain processes depth, motion, and balance. Disruptions in these functions can lead to a range of issues including headaches, migraines, dizziness, balance challenges, post-concussion symptoms, reading difficulties, and attention deficits (ADHD). By exploring these functional areas, we also identify opportunities to enhance performance in activities such as sports, reading speed, and cognitive processes.

  • What is Vision Therapy?

    At Opto-Mization, vision therapy is a specialized, personalized program aimed at improving visual skills and abilities. It goes beyond traditional vision therapy to help improve how the eyes and brain work together, addressing visual-motor and perceptual-cognitive challenges to enhance overall visual function. It’s more than just exercises; it’s a pathway to better vision and improved daily life.

  • Do you Provide Regular Eye Exams and General Optometric Services?

    Yes, alongside vision therapy and neuro-optometry, we offer comprehensive eye exams and general optometry services. Our experienced optometrists perform thorough eye exams to evaluate overall eye health, identify any eye conditions or diseases, and prescribe corrective lenses when beneficial.

  • Who is the Ideal Candidate for Vision Therapy and Neuro-Optometry?

    Vision therapy and neuro-optometric rehabilitation can help individuals of all ages. Whether you’re struggling with visual processing issues, binocular vision disorders, amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (eye misalignment), or have sustained a brain injury, our services might be beneficial for you. Contact us to discuss if our tailored approach can meet your specific needs and goals.

  • Do I Need a Referral to See an Optometrist at Opto-Mization?

    No, you do not need a referral for an eye exam at Opto-Mization. We welcome anyone who suspects they might benefit from our services, whether you’re experiencing symptoms of visual discomfort or just want to ensure optimal visual performance. Feel free to reach out and schedule your appointment directly with us to take the first step toward understanding and improving your visual function.

  • Do You Direct Bill Insurance?

    Yes, we offer direct billing for a variety of insurance plans to make the process as seamless and hassle-free as possible for our patients. Our knowledgeable staff is well-versed in working with insurance providers, ensuring that you can maximize your benefits while minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for our services, including vision therapy and eye exams.