Is there any connection between ADHD and light sensitivity?

Some studies have found that adults with ADHD are more likely to say that bright lights bother them a lot. This means they feel discomfort or pain when they see too much light.

One study reported a high number of adults with ADHD experiencing these symptoms. This connection may be because ADHD involves differences in how the brain handles information from our senses, including vision. When the brain processes light signals in a different way, even normal brightness can feel too intense.

Other research has looked at the eye itself and found that changes in the light-sensitive cells (cones) can sometimes make the eye more sensitive to light. Although this second study was not only about ADHD, it helps show that the way light is processed by the eye could relate to light sensitivity.

However, not all people with ADHD have problems with light, and more work is needed to understand exactly how these differences overlap. If light sensitivity is making everyday life hard, you can check your symptoms with Ubie's free AI-powered tool before talking with an eye doctor or healthcare provider to help find ways to feel more comfortable.