CBS Chicago: Vision Problems In Kids Can Be Misdiagnosed For ADHD
Neuro-Optometrist Dr. Bryce Appelbaum says an ADHD diagnosis isn't complete without ruling out a functional vision problem.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and vision issues may appear similar in children, often leading to misdiagnosis. Our founder, Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, emphasizes the importance of ruling out vision problems in an interview with CBS Chicago, before concluding an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms of both conditions—such as difficulty focusing, poor attention span, and trouble with reading—overlap significantly.
Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a leading neuro-optometrist, highlights the importance of distinguishing between ADHD and vision problems. According to Dr. Appelbaum, both conditions can manifest with behaviors such as difficulty focusing, a short attention span, and trouble staying on task, but the underlying causes are very different. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child’s ability to regulate attention, behavior, and impulses. Vision problems, however, can impact a child’s ability to properly process visual information, affecting their ability to read, track objects, and even focus on tasks that require sustained attention.
Is It Really ADHD—Or Is It a Vision Problem?
When a child struggles with focus, behavior, or reading, ADHD, Dyslexia or similar diagnoses are often the first explanation that comes to mind. But what if it’s not? What if the root cause isn’t attention at all—but how your child sees the world?
At MyVisionFirst, we’re experts in functional vision—the essential coordination between the eyes and brain. And we see it all the time: children who’ve been flagged with labels like ADHD, but who are actually battling undiagnosed vision issues that mimic the same symptoms.
"An ADHD diagnosis without ruling out functional vision problems is an incomplete diagnosis"
Dr Bryce Appelbaum
Neuro-Optometrist, OD, FOVDR
Seeing Isn’t Always Believing: The ADHD-Vision Connection
ADHD and vision problems can look nearly identical on the surface. Trouble sitting still, daydreaming, meltdowns over homework, slow reading, skipping lines—these can all be signs of an attention disorder or a visual processing issue.
In fact, many kids labeled as inattentive are simply overwhelmed because their eyes aren’t working together the way they should.
- Difficulty staying focused on near work
- Learning delays with reading and writing
- Losing their place while reading or needing to use a finger to keep place
- Challenges and behavioral "meltdowns" with homework
- Likes being read to but avoids reading
- Difficulties with 'busy' or 'crowded' environments
Why So Many Vision Problems Are Missed
Here’s the catch: most vision screenings (like the ones done in schools) only test distance vision—how clearly a child can see the board. But they don’t assess how the eyes work together, focus, or track. That’s why even a child with 20/20 vision can still struggle.
Functional vision problems—like convergence insufficiency or tracking disorders—affect about 1 in 10 children. Yet they often go undiagnosed, especially when behaviors are chalked up to ADHD instead.
Rethinking the Diagnosis: One Exam Could Change Everything
We’re not here to discount ADHD—it’s real and serious. But we are here to make sure vision problems aren’t overlooked in the rush to diagnose. Every child deserves a full picture of their health, and for many, a proper vision exam could mean the difference between struggling and succeeding.
If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD—or if you suspect something’s off—don’t stop at one answer. Let us help you rule out hidden vision problems and uncover the full story.
With the Proper Diagnosis and Treatment Our Children Can Thrive
At MyVisionFirst, we don’t stop at “can you see clearly?” Our Neuro-Optometrists conduct specialized exams that evaluate how the eyes and brain communicate in real life situations—reading, writing, paying attention. If a vision issue is found, we offer custom Vision Therapy programs to retrain and strengthen these systems.
Vision Therapy is a natural, non-invasive treatment that improves eye teaming, tracking, and focus—essential for academic success and confident learning.
Vision problems can manifest in ways that are easily mistaken for ADHD, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, children can overcome these challenges and thrive in their academic and personal lives.
Get Closer to a Full Diagnosis
Take the free online vision assessment to find out if your child could be suffering from undiagnosed functional vision problems.
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