ADD / ADHD Misdiagnosis

That’s how Michael came to meet with Dr. Bernstein.

Prior to coming to our office, Michael was diagnosed with ADD because he had difficulty making sense out of what he was reading. The results of the comprehensive vision exam showed Dr. Bernstein that while Michael did not need glasses to see far away, he had a problem when he tried to look up close, especially when he tried to read. This was an eye movement problem AND an eye focusing problem.

The type of problem he had was not caught by an earlier eye exam, because he could see the eye chart just fine (children with "normal" 20/20 vision often have problems reading). Where he had difficulty was when he would try to read or do his homework – the print would double with the words jumping on the page.

It was no wonder that Michael was struggling. Once he understood his problem, Michael immediately felt better about himself. There was actually a reason for his difficulty – he “had a problem with his eyes!”

Michael began a program of Vision Therapy prescribed by Dr. Bernstein. In order to ensure that he got the best results, it was recommended that Michael go off his medications of Adderal and Welbutrin while in vision therapy.

After a few months, Michael started to actually like school. Since completion of vision therapy, Michael has not had a need for medication.

We thought you might enjoy reading what Michael had to say when he finished his vision therapy program:

“Before I started vision therapy, I was struggling in school. When I would be asked to read two or three chapters in a book for homework, I wouldn’t finish it … After having completed vision therapy my eyesight is better than it ever has been. My vision almost never doubles and I am now much better at reading and seeing the blackboard in school.”

His mother shares some of the changes. She noticed: “His grades have improved with no C’s and he has much better self-esteem. Thanks to vision therapy.” Congratulations, Michael! The sky is the limit!