What is Irlen Syndrome?

Irlen Syndrome (also referred to at times as Meares-Irlen Syndrome, Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, and Visual Stress) is a perceptual processing disorder. It is not an optical problem. It is a problem with the brain’s ability to process visual information. This problem tends to run in families and is not currently identified by other standardized educational or medical tests.

“Irlen Syndrome: A Teen’s Summary by David Accola”

Irlen Syndrome can affect many different areas, including:

Academic and work performance

Behavior

Attention

Ability to sit still

Concentration

This problem can manifest itself differently for each individual. This problem is not remediable and is often a lifetime barrier to learning and performance. If you suffer from any of the following, Irlen Syndrome might be your problem:

Print looks different

Environment looks different

Slow or inefficient reading

Poor comprehension

Eye strain

Fatigue

Headaches

Difficulty with math computation

Difficulty copying

Difficulty reading music

Poor sports performance

Poor depth-perception

Low motivation

Low self-esteem

Symptoms of Irlen Syndrome

Light Sensitivity:

Bothered by glare, fluorescent lights , bright lights, sunlight and sometimes lights at night

, bright lights, sunlight and sometimes lights at night Some individuals experience physical symptoms and feel tired, sleepy, dizzy, anxious, or irritable. Others experience headaches, mood changes, restlessness or have difficulty staying focused, especially with bright or fluorescent lights.

Read more about light sensitivity and the Irlen Method >>

Reading Problems:

Poor comprehension

Misreads words

Problems tracking from line to line

Reads in dim light

Skips words or lines

Reads slowly or hesitantly

Takes breaks

Loses place

Avoids reading

Discomfort:

Strain and fatigue

Tired or sleepy

Headaches or nausea

Fidgety or restless

Eyes that hurt or become watery

Attention and Concentration Problems:

Problems with concentration when reading and doing academic tasks

Often people can appear to have other conditions, such as attention deficit disorder, and are given medication unnecessarily.

Writing Problems:

Trouble copying

Unequal spacing

Unequal letter size

Writing up or downhill

Inconsistent spelling

Other Characteristics:

Strain or fatigue from computer use

Difficulty reading music

Sloppy, careless math errors

Misaligned numbers in columns

Ineffective use of study time

Lack of motivation

Grades do not reflect the amount of effort

Depth Perception:

Clumsiness

Difficulty catching balls

Difficulty judging distances

Additional caution necessary while driving

Distortions: