With school starting it is important to remember good vision is key to a successful year! Tasks such as reading, writing, working on the computer, and even playing, demand visual ability. Poor vision can easily lead to learning problems.

The American Optometric Association warns of the issues a student can develop.

Avoid reading and other near visual work as much as possible.

Attempt to do the work anyway, but with a lowered level of comprehension or efficiency.

Experience discomfort, fatigue and a short attention span.

Some children with learning difficulties exhibit specific behaviors of hyperactivity and distractibility. These children are often labeled as having “Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder” (ADHD). However, undetected and untreated vision problems can elicit some of the very same signs and symptoms commonly attributed to ADHD. Due to these similarities, some children may be mislabeled as having ADHD when, in fact, they have an undetected vision problem.

Signs of vision problems

A child may not be aware they have vision problem or not able to express what they see. 

Signs that may indicate a child has vision problem include:

Frequent eye rubbing or blinking

Short attention span

Avoiding reading and other close activities

Frequent headaches

Covering one eye

Tilting the head to one side

Holding reading materials close to the face

An eye turning in or out

Seeing double

Losing place when reading

Difficulty remembering what he or she read

How often should your child have an eye exam?

Children should have a comprehensive eye exam every year. If they have risk factors or problems, it may be more often. School screenings are not a substitute for an eye exam by an optometrist. 

Vision changes can easily occur without anyone noticing. 

A spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Dr. Sumers explains, “many school age children suffer from nearsightedness, or myopia. In fact, a recent study showed over a third of children ages 12 through 17 are nearsighted in the United States. Over 60% of students who have learning disabilities, may suffer from undetected vision issues.”

Don’t put if off any longer, schedule your comprehensive eye exam today with Lake Nona Eye Care or call us at 407-658-9990