Vision-related quality of life and near-work visual symptoms in patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Clinical relevance: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been associated with visual symptoms that may impact daily activities such as near-work tasks and social interactions. Addressing these visual issues is important for improving the overall quality of life and functional outcomes in individuals with ADHD, particularly in academic and social settings.

Purpose: To investigate the relationship between vision-related quality of life and near-work visual symptoms in patients with ADHD patients.

Methods: A cohort of 37 individuals with ADHD was compared to age- and sex-matched healthy controls (n = 37). The 25-Item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25) and the Convergence Insufficiency Symptoms Survey (CISS) were used to assess vision-related quality of life and near-work visual symptoms.

Results: Mean NEI VFQ-25 scores were not significantly different between the ADHD and control groups. However, individuals with ADHD scored lower on the near activities (p = 0.032; Cohen's d = -0.511), social functioning (p = 0.045; Cohen's d = -0.481) and driving (p = 0.007; Cohen's d = -0.124) subscales. The CISS scores were significantly higher in the ADHD group (23.43 ± 11.22) than in the control group (14.02 ± 9.36; p < 0.001; Cohen's d = 0.910), indicating a significant relationship between ADHD and the presence of symptomatic subjects (p < 0.001; Cramer's V = 0.541). Medication did not affect NEI VFQ-25 or CISS scores. Female gender was associated with an increased number of symptomatic subjects based on their CISS scores (p = 0.043; Cramer's V = 0.396). Symptomatic ADHD individuals had lower NEI VFQ-25 scores (85.02 ± 12.68 vs. 96.02 ± 4.63, p = 0.008; Cohen's d = -0.969), indicating compromised vision-related quality of life.

Conclusions: Patients with ADHD experienced a reduced vision-related quality of life and increased near-work visual symptoms, suggesting potential repercussions on academic performance and social adaptability. This study underscores the importance of addressing visual issues in the ADHD population to enhance their overall well-being and functional outcomes.