Irlen Syndrome is more common than either heart disease or asthma but is often overlooked as the possible cause of the learning challenges many children face. This visual processing problem causes a variety of symptoms from visual distortions that make academic work more challenging to physical symptoms like headaches, migraines, strain and fatigue, difficulty attending, and problems with depth perception. Certain environments and situations, such as bright and fluorescent lighting, can make symptoms worse, and symptoms can be different in different people. Understanding the depth and breadth of the impact Irlen Syndrome can have is key to successfully addressing the condition and removing it as a barrier to learning. A short pre-screening questionnaire can help identify individuals who might be at risk for Irlen Syndrome, and educators can be trained to both identify and address Irlen Syndrome in their students.

In Irlen Syndrome, the brain struggles to make sense of the visual information it receives. Symptoms of the condition can range from mild discomfort under fluorescent lights and eye strain from the glare off the printed page to severe distortions on the page and in the environment and daily migraine headaches. Irlen Syndrome can be a contributing factor in up to 46% of children with reading and learning difficulties, and approximately 30% of people with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and those who have suffered a head injury. It also affects 12-14% of the general population, people who don’t have learning problems, successful professionals, and gifted students.

Overcoming Common Misconceptions

Since the condition was first discovered by American Psychologist, Helen Irlen, in 1983, several misconceptions about the condition have surfaced.

Misconception #1: Irlen Syndrome is just about reading. It’s not. Irlen Syndrome is a neurologic condition resulting in an over-active or over-stimulated brain. This extra brain activity affects lots of different areas of functioning including health and well-being, attention, concentration, behavior, depth perception, and academic performance. The impact on academic performance isn’t restricted to reading; the condition can also affect math computation, handwriting, copying, and even listening. It can affect behavior in the classroom, how long a child can stay focused, and how quickly a child can get work done. It can also have a dramatic effect on how a child feels physically. It can cause headaches, migraines, nausea, fatigue, and anxiety, and sometimes these physical symptoms can be debilitating. It’s not just about being able to see words clearly.

Misconception #2: Irlen Syndrome is a problem with the eyes. Wrong. Irlen Syndrome is not an issue with the eyes, it’s a problem with the brain. Even when the eyes function perfectly, the brain can have difficulty processing the visual information it receives. Irlen Syndrome requires separate and distinct assessment and intervention from eye problems. Vison issues should always be addressed by a trained eye-care professional prior to assessing a student for Irlen Syndrome.

Misconception #3: If a student is struggling to read, it’s probably dyslexia. Not necessarily. Dyslexia is one condition that can result in difficulty reading, but it’s not the only thing that can cause reading challenges. In fact, comments about physical discomfort when reading (e.g., eye strain or headaches), or print instability (e.g., words moving, blurring, etc.) are strong indicators that Irlen Syndrome might be the problem instead of dyslexia which is a phonological processing problem that is not related to physical symptoms or visual distortions. It is also possible for a student to have both dyslexia and Irlen Syndrome.

Co-Existing With Other Conditions: Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, TBI

The latest research on Irlen Syndrome has moved beyond reading to look at other populations. As many as 80% of individuals on the autism spectrum report having distorted perception, and research on Irlen Syndrome and autism has shown that interventions for Irlen Syndrome successfully correct this distorted world to make it clear and stable. The same is true for individuals struggling with headaches, reading, and academic difficulties after a concussion or head injury. When it comes to the connection between Irlen Syndrome and ADHD and Dyslexia, up to 30% of individuals who have these conditions also suffer from Irlen Syndrome. Sometimes there is a misdiagnosis of ADHD or dyslexia when the true problem is Irlen Syndrome.

Addressing Irlen Syndrome is Easy and Immediate

Irlen Syndrome is extremely easy to identify and address if you know what to look for. A brief questionnaire can be administered to a group of students, or individually, to flag students whose difficulties are likely to be a result of Irlen Syndrome. Once students are identified and assessed by a  trained professional, eliminating Irlen Syndrome as a barrier to learning is simple and immediate through the use of individualized, precision-tinted colored filters and overlays. Brain imaging research shows how filtering visual information through individualized spectral filters calms and normalizes brain activity in individuals with Irlen Syndrome, improving their performance and ability to function. Learn more about solutions.

For more information about Irlen Syndrome and a pre-screening self-test, visit www.irlensyndrome.org and www.irlen.com.

There are a number of modifications educators can make in the classroom environment to assist students who suffer from Irlen Syndrome.

Lighting:

• Turn off fluorescent lights: seat children with Irlen Syndrome near windows and turn off the bank of fluorescent lights closest to the windows
• Place colored gels over your fluorescent lights
• Allow the child to wear a dark brimmed hat to protect him/her from fluorescent lighting overhead

Computers and Tablets:

• Use digital overlays or Irlen colored overlay clings to individualize the color of the screen for the student
• Digital colored screen filters are now available in the accessibility settings of all iPads and MAC computers, and available apps and downloads also allow PC users and Chromebook users to customize their screen color (CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT WHERE TO FIND THE COLOR SCREEN FILTER IN YOUR DEVICE SETTINGS).

Whiteboards/Chalkboards:

• Use a brown or gray board instead of white
• Avoid colored markers and chalk (red and yellow are hard to see)
• Write in columns instead of across the entire length of the board

Overhead Projector/Interactive Whiteboards:

• Use colored overlays to change screen color
• Change the background color of the screen to gray or brown instead of white when using an interactive whiteboard the entire length of the board

Reading Modifications:

• Irlen Spectral Filters
• Colored overlays
• Magnifying bar
• Visor/brimmed hat
• Bookstand
• Markers (above, below, to the side of the line)
• Avoid fluorescent lighting
• Use dim or natural lighting

Paper:

• Use recycled, off-white,
• non-glare paper
• Avoid white, high-gloss paper
• Print assignments on colored
  paper (different colors for
  different children)

Testing Modifications:

• Tests duplicated on colored paper
• Colored plastic overlays
• Scantron answer sheets
• Use a ruler
• Use dim or natural lighting

Contrast:

• Avoid bright or fluorescent colors for both papers you use and also clothing you wear
• Avoid wearing stripes, plaids, and polka dots
• Avoid wearing glittery or sparkling jewelry and buttons
• Allow the child to wear a dark brimmed hat to protect him/her from fluorescent lighting overhead

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW COLOR CAN HELP

Amazing Research Findings from the Last 10 Years

There’s been a lot of really interesting research about Irlen Syndrome and the use of color as an intervention conducted over the last ten years. Here are some amazing research findings you might not know about that have been reported in scientific journals around the world. These studies use objective measures such as brain imaging and eye-tracking to assess improvements in brain function, performance, and symptom reduction, and they discuss the implications of Irlen symptoms among varying populations, such as those with fibromyalgia, traumatic brain injury, and Autism.

Note. Irlen Syndrome is also referred to as Meares-Irlen Syndrome, Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, and Visual Stress in the literature.

KEY FINDINGS

• 2022: Suppressing visual cortical activity might benefit people with CRPS or fibromyalgia.

  Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and fibromyalgia are chronic pain conditions associated with changes in the central nervous system, possibly leading to enhanced visual sensitivity. Researchers examined visual sensitivity elicited by different stimuli and in daily life, through an online study of people with CRPS (n = 57), fibromyalgia (n = 74), other pain (n = 50), and no pain (n = 89). Respondents rated changes in pain, discomfort, or distress from viewing patterns with different spatial frequencies (lower-order visual processing), and reversible figures (bistable images; higher-order visual processing). Respondents with CRPS or fibromyalgia reported more visual discomfort than pain-related and pain-free controls while viewing striped patterns and a circle, with no effect of spatial frequency. They reported more pain while viewing a nonreversible square, but not reversible figures (Necker Cube, Duck/Rabbit). Finally, they reported more daily visual sensitivity than pain-related and pain-free controls. (Ten Brink, A. F., & Bultitude, J. H. (2022). Visual Sensitivity in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Fibromyalgia: An Online Study. Perception, 51(3), 187-209.)

• 2022: Patients recovering from traumatic brain injury subjectively report that precision tinted lenses improve their post-traumatic light sensitivity and migraines.

  In a review of research regarding the use of colored filters among patients recovering from traumatic brain injuries, researchers found that while there is a paucity of information related to the therapeutic use of tinted lenses to mitigate post-traumatic light sensitivity and migraines, patients subjectively report improved symptoms, specifically with precision tints or FL-41. (Bansal, S., & Green, K. (2022). Application of colored filters in patients post-traumatic brain injury: A review. NeuroRehabilitation, (Preprint), 1-10.)

• 2020: Eye-tracking data shows objective improvements in reading with colored overlays.

  (reduced the number of Fixations and Regressions and improved Span of Recognition, Reading Rate, Relative Efficiency, and Comprehension. Spectral overlays immediately and significantly (p < .001) reduced the number of Fixations and Regressions per 100 words, while there were significant (p < .001) gains in positive factors such as Span of Recognition, Reading Rate, Relative Efficiency, and Comprehension. (Guimarães, M. R., Vilhena, D. D. A., Loew, S. J., & Guimarães, R. Q. (2020). Spectral overlays for reading difficulties: oculomotor function and reading efficiency among children and adolescents with visual stress. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 127(2), 490-509.)

• 2020: Tinted lenses improve social cognition in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

  A masked randomized control design compared the effectiveness of precision ophthalmic tints in improving the recognition of emotion in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Performance in the ASD group was superior in both social interaction tasks with the lenses that provided the optimal colour of light. (Ludlow, A. K., Giannadou, A., Franklin, A., Allen, P. M., Simmons, D. R., & Wilkins, A. J. (2020). The possible use of precision tinted lenses to improve social cognition in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Vision Research, 170, 53-59.)

• 2020: Spectral filters reduce TBI-related migraines and visual cortical sensitivity.

  Pre versus post comparison of migraine frequency, medication usage, and scores on the HIT-6TM showed that there was a significant reduction in migraine frequency (M=18.8, SD=22.0 vs. M=2.0, SD=6.0); t(181) = 10.6, p=.000. There was also significant improvement (M=66.0, SD=8.0 vs. M=41.6, SD=9.9) in terms of impact of headaches on functional health and well-being, t(183) = 32.9, p=.000. fMRI retinotopic scans show precision-tinted spectral versus blank filters reduced within primary and secondary visual regions as well as fronto-parietal attentional networks, consistent with reduced hyperactivity to visual stimulation and reduced recruitment of neural networks outside of the visual system proper. Preliminary evidence supports reduced uncontrolled cortical excitability to patterned light stimulation as a potential mechanism of action.  (Anderson, A., De Rosa, E., & Tosta, S. (2020, March). Precision-Tinted Spectral Filters Reduce TBI-Related Migraines and Visual Cortical Sensitivity. In JOURNAL OF HEAD TRAUMA REHABILITATION (Vol. 35, No. 2, pp. E199-E200). TWO COMMERCE SQ, 2001 MARKET ST, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103 USA: LIPPINCOTT WILLIAMS & WILKINS.)

• 2019: Systematic review and meta-analysis shows improved reading performance using colored overlays.

  63% of children in the general population inform perceptual improvement in text clarity with the use of overlays. The prevalence with the sustained use of at least two months is revealed in 30% of the general population. Finally, under the use of overlays, 33% of the population improved reading speed, quantified via Rate of Reading Test, with 18% presenting moderate to robust gains. The clinical groups that are most likely to gain reading speed with the use of overlays are, respectively: Tourette Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Reading Difficulty. (de Araújo Vilhena, D., Guimarães, MR, & Guimarães, RQ (2019). Improved reading performance using spectral slides: systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychology Argument, 36(93), 343-361.)

• 2019: About one-third of those diagnosed with dyslexia also have Irlen Syndrome.

A study of a sample of adults with dyslexia found that 27% also had Irlen Syndrome. (Caskey, J., & Freney, P. (2019). IS THERE A RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DYSLEXIA AND MEARES IRLEN-SYNDROME IN ADULT VOCATIONAL STUDENTS? European Journal of Education Studies.)

• 2018: Colored overlays result in increased reading speed, especially for those with discomfort.

  13% of the children presented an improvement of at least 15% in reading speed with the use of spectral overlays. Pupils with severe reading difficulties tended to have more improvement in RRT with spectral overlays. Children with severe reading discomfort obtained the highest gains in RRT. Overlays can improve reading performance, particularly in those children with severe visual discomfort. (Garcia A.C.O., Momensohn-Santos T.M., Vilhena D.A. (2018). Effects of Spectral Overlays on Reading Performance of Brazilian Elementary School Children, Folia Phoniatr Logop, 69, 219-225.)

• 2018: There is evidence of a genetic, biochemical and immunological bases of Meares-Irlen syndrome.

  An integrative literature review aimed to analyze the scientific production in relation to biochemical, genetic and immunological basis that maybe understood in this condition. Many studies have suggested an association of the syndrome with biochemical and genetic alterations. Some support the hypothesis that immune changes and metabolism of fatty acids are involved in cognitive and learning problems. Despite the scarce volume of studies on the subject, there is increasing evidence that there is a biochemical basis involved in a variety of visual disorders and learning. (Soares, F. A., & Gontijo, L. S. (2016). Production of knowledge: genetic basis, biochemical and immunological of Meares-Irlen Syndrome. Revista Brasileira de Oftalmologia, 75, 412-415.)

• 2017: Colored glasses significantly improve attention performance according to electrophysiological late event-related potential patterns.

The present investigation examined whether changes of electrophysiological late event related potential pattern could be used to reflect clinical changes from therapeutic intervention with coloured glasses in a group of patients with symptoms of central visual processing disorder. Subjects consisted of 13 patients with average age 16 years (range 6–51 years) with attention problems and learning disability, respectively. These patients were provided with specified coloured glasses which were required to be used during day time. Results indicated that specified coloured glasses significantly improved attention performance. Furthermore electrophysiological parameters revealed a significant change in the late event-related potential distribution pattern (latency, amplitudes). This reflects a synchronization of together firing wired neural assemblies responsible for visual processing, suggesting an accelerated neuromaturation process when using coloured glasses. Visual event-related potentials measures are sensitive to changes in clinical development of patients with deficits of visual processing wearing appropriate coloured glasses. (Friederichs, E., & Wahl, S. (2017). (Re)-wiring a brain with light: Clinical and visual processing findings after application of specific coloured glasses in patients with symptoms of a visual processing disorder (CVPD): Challenge of a possible new perspective? Medical hypotheses, 105, 49-62.)

• 2016: Tinted filters result in increased visual comfort for adults with mTBI reporting photosensitivity and reading problems.

The aim of the present pilot study was to determine the effect of spectral filters on reading performance and visuo-cortical responsivity in adults with mTBI. While there were few significant group differences in either the reading-related parameters or VEP latency for any of the test filter conditions, subjective improvements were noted in most with mTBI (11/12), supporting improved visual comfort. While significant findings based on the objective testing were found for some conditions, the subjective results suggest that precision tints should be considered as an adjunctive treatment in patients with mTBI and photosensitivity. (Fimreite, V., Willeford, K. T., & Ciuffreda, K. J. (2016). Effect of chromatic filters on visual performance in individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI): a pilot study. Journal of Optometry, 9(4), 231-239.)

• 2015: fMRI data shows improved brain function with colored filters that correlates directly with improved reading measures.

The reading speed of patients improved by more than 20% while wearing the selected lenses. When compared to the before-lens session, the after-lens session identified significant regions of activation in the left middle and superior temporal gyri  (paired t-test; maximal z score, 38;  Montreal  Neurological  Institute coordinate, -60 / -39 / 0; threshold at p < 0.05; corrected for multiple comparisons using family-wise error). No region of activation at the same threshold was found in the before-lens session as compared to the after-lens session. Conclusions: In the current study, we confirmed activation in the left middle and superior temporal gyri during sentence reading after wearing color-tinted lenses. (Kim, J. H., Seo, H. J., Ha, S. G., & Kim, S. H. (2015). Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Meares-Irlen Syndrome: A Pilot Study. Korean Journal of Ophthalmology, 29(2), 121-125.)

• 2012: There is brain imaging evidence of a neurobiological foundation of Irlen Syndrome.

There are significant differences in the amount of activation in both the visual cortex (primary and extrastriate) and the somatosensory cortex (postcentral gyrus) – the area of the brain that interprets information on touch, temperature, pain, and pressure between individuals with Irlen Syndrome and controls. (Chouinard, B. D., Zhou, C. I., Hrybouski, S., Kim, E. S., & Cummine, J. (2012). A functional neuroimaging case study of Meares–Irlen syndrome/visual stress (MISViS). Brain topography, 25(3), 293-307.)

• 2012: Colored filters are effective for alleviating visual symptoms and improving reading speed.

Twenty-five patients were selected through a brief questionnaire aimed to determine symptoms of eyestrain or visual distortion after thorough eye examinations. Two months after wearing the individually prescribed colored filters, a questionnaire on the patient’s subjective satisfaction with the colored filters were completed and evaluated. The mean reading rate improved from 82.72 wpm (words per minute) to 101.84 wpm with the colored filters, a statistically significant change (p = 0.019). The overall satisfaction score with the colored lenses was 3.6, with the highest score given to ease of reading (4.08). (Park, S. H., Kim, S. H., Cho, Y. A., & Joo, C. K. (2012). The effect of colored filters in patients with Meares-Irlen syndrome. Journal of the Korean Ophthalmological Society, 53(3), 452-459.)

• 2011: Precision-tinted filters normalize hyperactivity in the visual cortex related to migraine (V2-V4).

fMRI identified normalization of cortical activation (V2-V4) and spatial frequency tuning (V2) in the migraineurs by precision tinted filters that suggests a neurological basis for the therapeutic effect of these lenses in reducing visual cortical hyperactivation in migraine. (Huang, J., Zong, X., Wilkins, A., Jenkins, B., Bozoki, A., Cao, Y. (2011). fMRI evidence that precision ophthalmic tints reduce cortical hyperactivation in migraine. Cephalagia, 31(8):925-36.)

Autism and Visual Sensory Overload

The world can be a chaotic and overwhelming place for individuals on the autism spectrum. They can be sensitive to their environments and have unusually delicate sensory systems (i.e., sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste) that can be easily overloaded. Visual sensory overload is caused by a variety of perceptual distortions and hypersensitivity to visual stimuli, including bright lights and patterns. When the visual environment is distorted, fragmented, and chaotic, it can cause distress, discomfort, and confusion. Some behaviors commonly associated with ASD, such as avoiding eye contact and stimming are attempts to calm this distorted and chaotic visual world.

How Many Are Affected?

As many as 80% of individuals with autism report distorted perception, according to a study conducted by the Geneva Centre for Autism in Toronto, Canada. The most commonly reported problems were difficulties with depth perception; distorted perception of size, shape, and motion; seeing only small details and not the whole; and visual overstimulation.

What Does the World Look Like?

Well-known adults on the autism spectrum such as Temple Grandin and Donna Williams have described what the world can look like for someone with autism who experiences visual-perceptual processing difficulties. In her book, Nobody Nowhere, Donna Williams says, “Colors and things and people would fly, doors would get kicked in and sometimes faces would, too. But it was never whole people, only their pieces.” This is a glimpse into the often fragmented and frightening world in which many with ASD live. In 2021, a study published in Frontiers in Psychology stated, “Participants described a range of visual hypersensitivities, including to light, motion, patterns and particular colors, which contributed to distraction and were frequently part of a wider multisensory issue. Such experiences had significant negative impacts on personal well-being and daily life with participants describing fatigue, stress and hindrances on day-to-day activities (e.g., travel and social activities).”

What Causes the Problem?

In the visual cortex of the brain, information about shape, movement, and color is determined by magnocellular, parvocellular, and koniocellular neurons in the lateral geniculate nucleus. This information is then sent to the primary visual cortex. Neuroimaging studies show that many of the perceptual difficulties experienced are associated with hyperactivity in the visual cortex. There is a lack of inhibition in the orientation columns in the visual cortex, and this lack of inhibition causes excitation to spread throughout the visual system resulting in difficulty in processing visual information. Filtering visual stimuli through colored filters neutralizes this overactivity in the visual cortex and other areas of the brain, reducing visual overload and correcting perceptual distortions.

How Does Color Help?

Neuroimaging studies show that many of the perceptual difficulties associated with visual sensory overload are a result of hyperactivity in the visual cortex. Both ISRN Neurology (2012) and Autism Science Digest: The Journal of AutismOne (2012) published articles discussing the positive benefits of color (in either the form of colored lenses or colored overlays) to improve the difficulties associated with perceptual processing difficulties many individuals with autism experience. For individuals with autism, this often means transforming a fragmented environment into a cohesive whole. For some, it can take once distorted and scary faces and make them clear, cohesive, and friendly. This change in the way faces look can have a dramatic impact on the individual with autism’s willingness to make eye contact and also can improve their ability to recognize emotions, according to studies recently published in Vision Research (2020) and Autism Research (2015). And, because behaviors such as stimming are often performed in an effort to create calm in a chaotic environment, when the visual environment calms down, these behaviors can calm down as well. In her book, Like Color to the Blind, Donna Williams describes the difference that colored lenses made in how her world looked, “Before I saw cracked children, cracked steps, print and writing…However, the person, I did not see whole.  I saw hair, I saw, eyes, nose, mouth, child…not a face.  Now I see the whole face, the whole person…I could now perceive for the first time as a whole…I finally could do more than struggle to image an un-fragmented whole.”

Individuals with autism who also suffer from perceptual processing difficulties that may be helped by colored lenses may have difficulties with any of the following:

1) Sensory Overload caused by bright lights, fluorescent lights, and sunlight. Lighting is stressful; and this results in behaviors to filter out the light, poor eye contact, and physical symptoms such as anxiety or headaches.

2) Environmental Distortions where the individual sees the world in a distorted fashion. Objects are blurry, moving, changing, and can disappear. People may look frightening, stairs may look like a slide without steps, and walls and floors may swing and sway. Misperceptions can cause difficulties with sustained attention, eye contact, gross and small motor coordination, ability to interpret facial expressions, and poor social skills.

3) Print Distortions make learning or reading difficult. The individual may have good or even advanced reading skills but has trouble with reading comprehension or experiences strain and fatigue when reading or doing other activities. Tracking or building breaks into reading may be a problem.

Take a self-test to see if color can help, or try the color light activity for children under 7 years.

References

Coulter, R. A. (2009). Understanding the Visual Symptoms of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Optometry & Vision Development, 40(3).

Geneva Centre for Autism (1994). The sensory experiences of individuals with autism based on first-hand accounts. Toronto, Canada: Geneva Centre for Autism.

Grandin, T. Thinking in Pictures: And Other Reports from My Life with Autism. New York: Doubleday, 1995.

Grandin, T. (2013). My experience with visual thinking and sensory oversensitivity: the need for research on sensory problems. In M.A. Just and K.A. Pelphrey (Eds.), Development and Brain Systems in Autism (pp. 3-12). New York, NY: Taylor & Frances.

Giuliani, F., & Schwarz, K. (2017). Connections between Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Meares-Meares-Irlen Syndrome. Autism Open Access, 7(216), 2.

Huang J, Zong X, Wilkins A, Jenkins B, Bozoki A, & Cao Y (2011). fMRI evidence that precision ophthalmic tints reduce cortical hyperactivation in migraine. Cephalalgia: an international journal of headache, 31 (8), 925-36 PMID: 21622479

Hubel, D.H. (1995). Eye, Brain, and Vision. New York: Scientific American Library; 2.

Ikeda J, Davitt BV, Ultmann M, Maxim R, & Cruz OA (2012). Brief Report: Incidence of Ophthalmologic Disorders in Children with Autism. Journal of autism and developmental disorders PMID: 22350452

Irlen, H. (2012). A sensory intervention for visual processing deficits using precision colored filters. Autism Science Digest: The Journal of AutismOne, 04, 94-102.

Keen AG, & Lovegrove WJ (2000). Transient deficit hypothesis and dyslexia: examination of whole-parts relationship, retinal sensitivity, and spatial and temporal frequencies. Vision Research, 40 (6), 705-15 PMID: 10824271

Kranowitz, C. (2005). The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Disorder. New York: Penguin Group Publishers.

Ludlow, A. K., Giannadou, A., Franklin, A., Allen, P. M., Simmons, D. R., & Wilkins, A. J. (2020). The possible use of precision tinted lenses to improve social cognition in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Vision Research, 170, 53-59.

Ludlow, A., Taylor-Whiffen, E., & Wilkins, A. (2012). Coloured Filters Enhance the Visual Perception of Social Cues in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. ISRN Neurology, vol. 2012, Article ID 298098, 6 pages, 2012. doi:10.5402/2012/298098

Ludlow, A., Wilkins, A., & Heaton, P. (2006).  The effect of colored overlays on reading ability in children with Autism.  Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Spring 2006.

Parmar KR, Porter CS, Dickinson CM, Pelham J, Baimbridge P, Gowen E. Visual Sensory Experiences From the Viewpoint of Autistic Adults. Front Psychol. 2021 Jun 8;12:633037. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.633037. PMID: 34168586; PMCID: PMC8217662.

Whitaker, L., Jones, C. R.G., Wilkins, A. J. and Roberson, D. (2015), Judging the Intensity of Emotional Expression in Faces: the Effects of Colored Tints on Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism Res. doi: 10.1002/aur.1506

Williams, D. Like Color to the Blind: Soul Searching and Soul Finding. New York: Times Books, 1996.

Williams, D. Nobody Nowhere: The Remarkable Autobiography of an Autistic Girl. New York: Times Books, 1992.

Wilkins A, Huang J, & Cao Y. (2004). Visual stress theory and its application to reading and reading tests. Journal of Research in Reading, 27(2), 152-62.

Every person’s brain is different, just like their fingerprint. And, since every brain is unique, it’s only fitting to accept that not all brains will respond exactly the same way to the same stimuli, event, or activity. The term neurodiversity embraces the unique ways individuals function and views differences among people along a spectrum instead of comparing to a single threshold of what is considered normal. Through this neurodivergency philosophy, society accepts that there is a wide range of normal behavior, cognition, and emotional response, not a single “normal” or “typical” way we all should be.

“Neurodiversity is a concept that regards individuals with differences in brain function and behavioral traits as part of normal variation in the human population.”

Just like fingerprints that are all unique, making it impossible to label any fingerprint normal or typical, every brain is unique. Why is it then that we have always expected these unique brains to function in exactly the same way? When you look at it that way, it does seem kind of silly.

The term neurodiversity was coined in the 1990s by Australian sociologist, Judy Singer, to fight stigma and promote acceptance of people with autism. But it also includes other conditions that involve neurological differences, such as ADHD, learning disorders, and processing problems, such as Irlen Syndrome. Once consider atypical function is now considered simply a variation in the way brains work.

To be neurodiverse is to be different, not wrong. A brain that works differently isn’t a brain that needs to be fixed or cured. With neurodiversity, these brain differences are celebrated and viewed as strengths.

Irlen Syndrome, also known as scotopic sensitivity syndrome, is a perceptual disorder characterized by difficulty processing visual information. People with Irlen Syndrome often experience discomfort, eyestrain, headaches, and other physical symptoms when reading or working with printed materials.

Irlen Syndrome is considered a neurodivergent condition. It is a variation in neurological function, in this case, how the brain interprets and processes visual stimuli and light, that can result in differences in cognition, perception, and behavior. Instead of viewing Irlen Syndrome as a disorder that needs to be fixed, the neurodiversity perspective encourages accommodations and support to help people with Irlen Syndrome thrive in academic and work environments. This includes the use of customized colored lenses, contacts, and plastic transparencies.

Overall, the neurodiversity movement seeks to promote a more inclusive and accepting society that recognizes and values all forms of neurological diversity, including Irlen Syndrome.

To learn more about Irlen Syndrome visit www.irlen.com

Visual sensory sensitivities are a common sensory issue in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They may experience hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to certain visual stimuli, such as bright lights, flashing lights, or patterns. These sensitivities can cause discomfort, anxiety, or even pain.

For example, an individual with ASD may have difficulty with bright or fluorescent lighting, as it can be overwhelming and cause sensory overload. They may also have trouble with busy or visually cluttered environments, as it can be difficult to focus on specific objects or tasks.

While not all individuals with ASD experience visual sensory sensitivities, and the severity and type of sensitivities can vary from person to person, light and visual sensory sensitivity is reported by up to 80% of individuals with ASD. Many of the visual sensory sensitivities reported by individuals with ASD, such as light sensitivity, perceptual distortions in the environment and on the printed page, and even issues with facial recognition can be improved with the use of individualized colored lenses that filter light and visual signals to the brain to reduced hyperactivity in the visual cortex and allow for improved visual processing.

For more information about colored lenses for individuals with visual sensory sensitivities and autism visit www.irlen.com.

Anxiety is a pervasive issue for many children. Since the pandemic, anxiety rates have nearly doubled [1] leaving students with impaired ability to learn, participate, and interact with others in the educational environment. While anxiety is a normal part of development, for example, feeling upset at school drop-off or having anxiety before a test, it should not be long-lasting or widespread. Anxiety can impact every age group, and the signs and symptoms may appear differently based on the child’s stage of development. All children can experience generalized anxiety or phobias, but social anxiety and panic are most often seen in teenagers. Younger children are more likely to experience separation anxiety or selective mutism. The signs, especially if less severe, may be harder for parents and educators to identify.

Some signs that a student may be experiencing anxiety in the classroom include:

• Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
• Fear of class participation or interaction with peers
• Physical symptoms, such as sweating, trembling, or nausea
• Excessive worry about “bad” things happening related to family, school, etc.
• Difficulty sleeping at night, leading to trouble staying awake during class

In addition to professional support, there are a number of strategies that teachers and educators can use to help students experiencing anxiety in the classroom. These include:

• Creating a supportive and positive classroom environment that encourages open communication and respect for all students
• Providing clear and consistent expectations for behavior and performance
• Offering accommodations or modifications to assignments or testing for students with documented anxiety disorders
• Encouraging self-care practices, such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to help students manage their anxiety symptoms
• Providing opportunities for students to practice relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery, during class or study periods

It’s also important that teachers be aware of the signs of anxiety in the classroom and seek support from school counselors, administrators, or other professionals when necessary. In some cases, visual processing problems, like Irlen Syndrome, can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Sensitivity to light, reading difficulties, and other symptoms of the condition create a stressed and overworked brain. This can then lead to anxious feelings. By working together, parents, educators, and support staff can identify the children negatively impacted by anxiety and provide the tools and environment they need to thrive.

References

[1] Racine  N, McArthur  BA, Cooke  JE, Eirich  R, Zhu  J, Madigan  S.  Global prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents during COVID-19: a meta-analysis.   JAMA Pediatr. Published online August 9, 2021. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2021.2482

For students who regularly use colored overlays in the classroom to address visual stress and visual processing problems, there are often questions and anxiety about whether they will be allowed to use this assistive technology on state and standardized tests.  The use of colored overlays on state standardized tests and college boards is generally allowed, but it is important to check with the specific testing organization to confirm their policies. In most cases, the student must provide documented use of colored overlays in the classroom in the form of an IEP or 504 plan.

The College Board in the United States, lists colored overlays as an accepted accommodation on all standardized tests and college entrance exams, including the SAT and AP exams. https://accommodations.collegeboard.org/typical-accommodations/other

Most states offer color accommodations for instruction and assessment. For online/computer assessments, contrast/color choices are available, and for paper-based assessments, colored overlays are available. Most states require that color accommodations be used for both instruction and assessment throughout the year, as well.

Colored overlays can be helpful for individuals with certain visual processing issues, such as Irlen Syndrome, by reducing visual stress and making it easier to read and comprehend text. If a student needs to use colored overlays during testing, it is important to communicate this need to the testing organization well in advance and provide any necessary documentation or evidence to support the request. The testing organization may have specific procedures in place for accommodating such requests, such as providing the student with colored overlays during the test or allowing the student to bring their own.

It is also important to note that the use of colored overlays may not be a suitable accommodation for all individuals with visual processing issues, and other accommodations such as extended time or a reader may be more appropriate.

To learn more about how to request the use of colored overlays on state or standardized testing, visit your state’s appropriate testing website.

You’re watching a program on an older television, and soon, it’s overtaken by static. This is what someone with Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) experiences regularly. VSS is a rare neurological disorder where the entire visual field is obstructed by small flickering dots similar to TV static or snow. The dots are most often black and white, but they may also appear colored, flashing, or transparent. Its onset occurs in much younger individuals than other neurological disorders, and children can be impacted. The majority of VSS sufferers also report other visual and neurologic phenomena including:

• Palinopsia, or the persistence or reoccurrence of an image in time
• Light sensitivity or visual processing problems
• Difficulty seeing in dim light or at night
• Other visual effects from the eye, like floaters
• Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
• Migraines

It is only within the last several years that the medical community has come to accept VSS as a diagnosis. Until recently, it was frequently misdiagnosed, most often as a migraine aura. The cause is not well understood, but it is believed to stem from an issue with visual processing in the brain cortex and not a problem with vision itself. Because visual snow is a relatively new and poorly understood condition, there is currently no standardized treatment for it. However, some individuals may benefit from medications or other interventions that target underlying conditions, such as migraines or anxiety. Others may find relief from avoiding triggers, such as bright lights or stressful situations, or from practicing relaxation techniques. Interventions that focus on filtering visual stimuli through colored lenses and regulating brain activity in the visual cortex can reduce visual snow for some individuals, while at the same time addressing related concerns such as light sensitivity, migraines, and anxiety, but will not usually completely resolve the visual snow. More research is needed to both understand the syndrome and the treatments available. If you believe you or your child are experiencing VSS, you may need to consult an ophthalmologist or neurologist for diagnosis.

Falling through the cracks simply means falling behind
when everyone else is moving forward.

With teachers being more taxed than ever before, the risk of students falling through the cracks is on the rise. The education system expects a lot from today’s teachers, from individualized instruction to behavior management, teachers do it all, often with a lack of available materials, resources, and support. This environment sets the stage for some children, especially those who do not cause classroom disruptions, to fall through the cracks. Here are some tips for how educators and parents can work together to help prevent kids from falling through the cracks.

What Educators Can Do:

1. Know who is at risk. While falling behind can happen to any student, it’s important for educators to know who is at greatest risk. This includes students with low IQ, reading and learning disabilities, boys, kids with challenging home lives, and kids with behavior and mental health issues.
2. Assess regularly. Regular, informal assessments to gauge students’ handle on academic material help you identify kids who might be slipping behind before it becomes difficult to help them catch up. This doesn’t mean subjecting kids to constant testing. Informal assessment of knowledge can take many forms, including active conversations about subject matter, opportunities to instruct others, and Socratic method teaching styles.
3. Elicit participation from all kids, not just those who volunteer. The rumor is true, it’s the quiet ones, the ones that don’t rock the boat, who manage to slide by under the radar for years before anyone ever realizes they have fallen behind.
4. Provide opportunities for all students to feel successful.  Students are more engaged with the education system when they feel like they can be successful there. Offering students different ways to achieve success in education that don’t always correspond with grades is one way to keep lower-performing children interested and engaged.
5. Early intervention is better. A wait-and-see approach might not be the best course of action if you aren’t sure whether a student requires formal intervention or not. With most learning challenges, the earlier the intervention the better, so if you have any reason to think a student might benefit from some extra help, providing those opportunities can only benefit the student.

What Parents Can Do:

1. Recognize the signs your child needs help. These can include poor grades, physical symptoms of anxiety and stress, behavior changes, or a change in attitude about school.
2. E-mail your child’s teacher. Share your concerns and what accommodations are helping at home. Ask what they’re experiencing with your child in the classroom.
3. Trust your instincts. No one knows your child better, so if you know they need additional support, keep pushing until you’re heard.
4. Request psychoeducational testing from the school district to identify whether your child would benefit from accommodations. You can read more about how to request an evaluation here.
5. Consider outside testing if your concerns are surrounding an issue your district is not well equipped to diagnose, such as auditory processing difficulties.

The academic system can be challenging to navigate, but with patience, frequent communication, and persistence, parents and educators can work together to help every child find success.

Saccadic movement, more commonly known as saccades, is the ability of the eyes to move in synchrony from point A to point B rapidly without deviating from the path. Impaired saccadic movement is when the eyes do not move together in a designated pattern such as left/right and top/bottom. They may jump randomly or move in uncoordinated patterns that can lead to a variety of issues when completing reading and written work.

Issues with Saccades may affect a child’s reading in the following ways:

– Skipping words or lines

– Slow reading

– Poor comprehension

– Using a finger to track while reading

– Words appearing to move on a page

– Words coming in and out of focus

– Eye strain and fatigue

What causes saccadic impairment?

While many consider saccadic impairment a vision issue, research suggests that visual processing problems originating in the brain can also cause a disruption in normal saccadic movement that results in reading and learning challenges.¹ The brain controls eye movement, and when the visual cortex in the brain isn’t functioning properly, it can affect the eyes’ ability to work together successfully.

Recent research on children with visual processing problems has shown that not only is ocular movement impaired during the act of reading, but it can be improved with colored filters.² Colored filters have been shown to normalize the brain’s hyper-reactive response to visual input for children suffering from light-based visual processing problems such as Irlen Syndrome, also known as Visual Stress, Meares-Irlen Syndrome, and Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome.

Signs that a child may have a saccadic impairment:
– Difficulty copying work from the board to a paper or between two papers without errors or omission of words
– Frequently losing one’s place when reading
– Utilizing a finger to track along lines of text
– Frequent spelling errors
– Poor spacing when writing, or difficulty staying on the line

Treating Saccadic Deficiencies

If issues with saccadic movement are related to a light-based visual processing problem such as Irlen Syndrome, addressing the underlying visual processing problem with spectral filters can resolve the issues with saccadic movement. Improvement in saccadic movements will be immediate and will not require any additional training, remediation, or instruction. Testing and remediation for Irlen Syndrome can be completed in 1-2 testing sessions. Other causes of saccadic impairment may require an optical intervention instead. The standard recommended optical intervention for saccadic impairment is vision therapy.

For more information on interventions for Irlen Syndrome, visit www.irlen.com.

References

1. Lopes, V. P., de Araújo Vilhena, D., Guimarães, R. Q., & Guimarães, M. R. (2022). Análise dos movimentos oculares de adultos com estresse visual na leitura. Research, Society and Development, 11(4), e50511427658-e50511427658.
2. Guimarães, M. R., Vilhena, D. D. A., Loew, S. J., & Guimarães, R. Q. (2020). Spectral overlays for reading difficulties: oculomotor function and reading efficiency among children and adolescents with visual stress. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 127(2), 490-509.

Learning is a complex, multifaceted process. When your child is having challenges in school, it can be difficult to pinpoint why. Trouble with visual processing is a major factor easily missed by both families and professionals because it is not well understood. At the root, it is due to an over-reactive visual system stemming from light sensitivity. The problem lies in how the brain processes visual information, not in the ability for the eyes to function appropriately; in short, it’s a brain problem, not a vision problem, though some people will have both visual acuity and processing deficits. Your child might have a visual processing problem if they:

• Experience light sensitivity
• Complain of eye strain, fatigue, or irritation
• Experience headaches or migraines
• Struggle with depth perception
• Are slow, or inefficient readers
• Have reading comprehension issues
• Experience distortions looking at print or their environment

If you suspect your child has a problem with visual processing, first schedule visits to the pediatrician and optometrist to rule out a medical cause. Work with your child’s teacher to make accommodations to the classroom environment, like adjusted seating position, lighting, or materials. Printing on colored pages, increasing font size, limiting use of bright colors, and reducing high contrast materials are examples. Some school districts are able to assess for visual processing problems during the psychoeducational process, but if yours is not, you can seek independent assessment from a certified Irlen screener.

If you’ve been writing or saying “Irlens Syndrome or Irlen’s Syndrome” you’ve been doing it wrong! Irlen Syndrome was discovered by Helen Irlen in the early 1980s. She named the condition Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, but many years later, the condition was renamed after her. In medicine, when they name a disease after the person who discovered it, it’s called an “eponymous disease name.” The medical profession has urged since the 1970s the dropping of the possessive S at the end of disease names which were originally named after their discoverers. The possessive is thought to confuse people by implying that the person named actually had the disease. An ‘apostrophe s’ connotes ownership or possession. Helen Irlen does not have Irlen Syndrome, it was just named after her.

The general public often has a hard time following this rule (let’s call it the no-S rule). Down Syndrome (also spelled without an “s”) is named after John Langdon Down, but the public so often erroneously uses the term, “Downs Syndrome” that many people have concluded the syndrome’s discoverer must have been named “Downs.” He wasn’t.

Other conditions that should always be stated without an “s” are “Munchhausen Syndrome” and “Tourette Syndrome,” but I’m sure we all know lots of people who use the incorrect “Munchhausen’s” or “Tourrette’s Syndrome” instead. And, to make matters worse, many conditions are way more commonly written with an apostrophe “s” than not, making the “s” version seem more correct. This is true for “Alzheimer’s,” “Addison’s,” “Parkinson’s,” “Bright’s,” “Crohn’s,” “Hansen’s,” “Hodgkin’s,” and “Raynaud’s” diseases, all of which usually have the ’s. This just makes the rules even that much more confusing.

The extra “s” also incorrectly finds its way into diseases that aren’t even named after people at all. One such example is Lyme Disease. This disease is named after the town of Lyme, Connecticut (clearly not a person who could have ever suffered from this condition). There should never be an “s” at the end of Lyme Disease, or any other disease named after a place for that matter.

With all that said, regardless of what you do when talking or writing about other conditions (feel free to say and write them however it feels right to you), when it comes to Irlen Syndrome, please leave out the s.

Thanks!

Find Irlen Glasses & Lenses: How to Get Irlen Glasses and Locate Testing Centers | Irlen.com

Welcome to the Irlen Syndrome Foundation’s comprehensive guide on how to get the right Irlen glasses and lenses that can significantly improve your quality of life. If you’re experiencing visual distortions or strain that hampers your reading and learning abilities, this article will provide you with the essential steps to obtaining specially-tinted Irlen glasses. Moreover, we’ll guide you through locating authorized testing centers, ensuring you receive a professional assessment and tailored solutions. Dive in to discover how the Irlen Method can unlock a new world of clarity and comfort for you.

Find Solutions to Irlen Syndrome: Get Testing and Glasses at Certified Centers

Seeking relief from Irlen Syndrome begins with finding certified centers that specialize in the Irlen Method, a reputable approach backed by empirical evidence. Individuals with visual processing problems can find proper testing from certified screeners or diagnosticians, ensuring that their unique needs are met The Irlen Method, a cornerstone in addressing visual issues associated with Irlen Syndrome, offers a pathway to identifying visual processing problems that standard vision tests may overlook. Through specialized assessment you will be able to determine ifIrlen spectral filters, worn as glasses or contacts, will benefit your visual experience.

. These spectral filters are tailor-made to address the specific visual processing problems inherent in Irlen Syndrome. The glasses utilize innovative lens technology to filter out troublesome wavelengths of light, thus alleviating the challenges faced by each individual. The use of precision-tinted filters enhances visual comfort and processing.

Sourcing Irlen lenses requires engaging with certified professionals who can provide a custom-fit solution. These individuals have undergone comprehensive training to administer the Irlen Method and understand the intricacies of the visual processing problems you’re facing. To find testing centers and expertise in creating Irlen glasses, it’s best to consult the Irlen Syndrome Foundation or visit Irlen.com. By connecting with these resources, individuals can access a network of professionals who can aid in acquiring the spectral filters needed to mitigate the effects of Irlen Syndrome effectively. Remember, testing is a critical step to ensure that any visual processing problems due to Irlen Syndrome are addressed appropriately, and only certified screeners and diagnosticians are equipped to administer these tests accurately.

• Improved Reading Comfort — Irlen Lenses can reduce glare and visual stress, making reading more comfortable, which can lead to longer periods of sustained focus and better comprehension.
• Reduction in Visual Distortions — For individuals with Irlen Syndrome, these lenses help minimize distortions such as blurriness or words that appear to move, resulting in a clearer and more stable visual experience.
• Enhanced Visual Clarity — Irlen Lenses are tailored to filter specific light wavelengths, which can enhance clarity and contrast, making the visual environment easier to navigate and less overwhelming.

Overcoming Visual Problems – Test for Irlen Syndrome and Obtain Therapeutic Lenses

Struggling with visual problems can be a daunting hurdle in day-to-day life. Fortunately, identifying and overcoming these challenges is possible through accurate testing for Irlen Syndrome, a condition often associated with light sensitivity, reading difficulties, and, in some cases, can occur alongside other conditions, like dyslexia. To obtain relief and enhance visual perception, Irlen Spectral Filters, available as overlays or tinted Irlen lenses, can be personalized to meet the specific spectral needs of individuals. Research supports that these unique color-based interventions are engineered to alleviate the brain’s stress from processing light, thus making reading and exposure to light more comfortable.

The first step towards overcoming these visual problems is to get a professional assessment at certified Irlen testing centers. Then, the diagnostic process helps to pinpoint the precise colors that will help in mitigating your difficulties. Once identified, you can get your custom-tailored Irlen glasses, ensuring the spectral filters match your individual needs.

For those with light sensitivity, Irlen spectral filters serve as a therapeutic tool, helping to manage the brain’s response to problematic wavelengths of light. Whether you’re combating the challenges posed by reading difficulties, or simply seeking solutions to reduce eye strain, the ability to obtain and make use of these lenses is a significant step in the right direction. By addressing your light processing issues, these lenses help in creating a more conducive environment for your brain to process visual information without the usual strain or discomfort.

Share your experiences and save others from the struggles of undiagnosed visual processing problems by spreading the word about these solutions. Get testing, share research, and join a community committed to helping those affected by Irlen Syndrome. Ultimately, you can obtain and make use of Irlen lenses to mitigate the effects of this condition and improve your day-to-day life.

In conclusion, finding the right Irlen lenses are crucial for those affected by Irlen Syndrome. The journey begins with identifying a certified screener or diagnostician through the Irlen Syndrome Foundation, followed by precise testing and lens tint customization to meet your specific needs. Remember, accurate Irlen lens creation and the support of trained professionals can lead to significant improvements in your daily life. Locate a testing center near you by visiting Irlen.com and take the first step towards visual comfort and enhanced reading capabilities.

Q: What is Irlen Syndrome, and how can Irlen glasses help?
A: Irlen Syndrome is a perceptual processing disorder that affects the brain’s ability to process specific wavelengths of light, often leading to visual distortions, eyestrain, and reading difficulties. Irlen glasses are equipped with spectral filters, also known as Irlen lenses, which are custom-tinted to filter out the troublesome light frequencies, alleviating these symptoms and improving visual comfort.
Q: How do I know if I have Irlen Syndrome and could benefit from Irlen glasses?
A: If you’re experiencing light sensitivity, visual distortions, or reading difficulties, you may have Irlen Syndrome. The best way to confirm this is by undergoing a professional assessment at a certified Irlen testing center, where specialized testing can determine if Irlen lenses would be beneficial for you.
Q: Where can I find a certified testing center for Irlen Syndrome?
A: Certified Irlen Syndrome testing centers can be located by consulting the Irlen Syndrome Foundation or visiting Irlen.com. These authorized centers will have professionals trained in the Irlen Method to conduct accurate assessments of your visual processing issues.
Q: What should I expect during the diagnostic process for Irlen Syndrome?
A: During the diagnostic process, trained professionals will evaluate your visual perception and sensitivities to identify the specific issues caused by Irlen Syndrome. They will help pinpoint the precise colors of Irlen spectral filters that can mitigate your difficulties, which will guide in custom-tailoring your Irlen glasses.
Q: Is there any research to support the use of Irlen spectral filters for those with Irlen Syndrome?
A: Yes, research supports that Irlen spectral filters, which can be personalized to meet the individual’s spectral needs, are effective in alleviating the brain’s stress from processing light. These color-based interventions make activities like reading and exposure to light more comfortable for those with Irlen Syndrome.

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How Do They Test for Irlen Syndrome? – Irlen Syndrome Self-Test & Screening

Irlen Syndrome, or Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, is a perceptual processing disorder that affects the way the brain interprets visual information. Understanding the diagnostic process is helpful for those experiencing symptoms. At Irlen.com, we offer a first step for individuals to identify potential challenges associated with this condition. Expert diagnostic procedures aim to tailor intervention that can significantly improve comfort and efficiency in reading and other visual tasks.

Irlen Syndrome Self-Test and Official Diagnosis: Unveiling Hidden Reading Challenges

Irlen Syndrome, often also referred to as Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, is a visual processing disorder that is not detected by standard educational, visual, or medical tests. It relates to the brain’s ability to process specific wavelengths of light. The first indication of this disorder may come through difficulty with reading, where the individual finds that text appears to move, shake, or blur, making the reading experience strenuous. A self-test can be taken as the first step to identify potential Irlen Syndrome symptoms. The Irlen self-test is a simple and informative way to make an initial assessment concerning the likelihood of the presence of the syndrome. It involves a questionnaire that helps pinpoint areas of difficulty and discomfort related to visual processing, particularly while reading under fluorescent lights or when surrounded by bright colors.

The official diagnostic process for Irlen Syndrome is more comprehensive. It starts with a screening, which is a specialized assessment performed by an Irlen-certified screener or diagnostician. The screening is designed to explore how visual information is processed and whether spectral filters might improve the individual’s visual perception. If a significant improvement is noticed with the use of colored overlays during the screening, it is a strong indicator that the individual may benefit from further, tailored testing.

Following the initial screening, the next step involves precise testing for spectral filters—lenses that are customized in terms of hue and density to cater to the individual’s sensitivity to specific colors and lights. These filters are then provided in the form of tinted glasses or contact lenses.

For those looking to dive deeper into the relation between Irlen Syndrome and reading challenges, Irlen.com is a top resource for information and services. Here, one can find ample research backing the existence and treatment of Irlen Syndrome, along with an extensive list of clinics—and even the opportunity to email and connect with experts for a more personalized approach. The Amen Clinics have also associated themselves with Irlen assessments, recognizing the importance of addressing visual processing difficulties in improving overall cognitive function and aiding those with reading difficulties.

Individuals with autism may also find that Irlen Syndrome complicates their visual processing. The use of colored overlays or spectral filters can be a game-changer, making visual stimuli and reading a less daunting. Diagnosing Irlen Syndrome is not conducted through a traditional eye test—instead, it targets the brain’s ability to see and process visual information without discomfort or difficulty. It’s not about vision—it’s about cognitive processing.

To begin the journey towards a potential diagnosis and personalized solutions for Irlen Syndrome, interested individuals can visit Irlen.com. This page provides a comprehensive look at services available, lists clinics where one can undergo the necessary screening and subsequent tests, and become informed on the importance of recognizing and managing this unique visual processing disorder.

1. Difficulty with reading, including problems such as strain, fatigue, and headaches, which tend to worsen with prolonged exposure to text or bright, high-contrast reading materials.
2. Sensitivity to certain lighting conditions or visual stimuli, including fluorescent lights, bright sunlight, and high-glare environments, leading to discomfort, squinting, or the need to wear sunglasses indoors.
3. Perception issues like seeing text that appears to move, blur, shimmer, or form patterns, making it hard to maintain focus on the words while reading.

Assessing Irlen Syndrome: Testing Light Sensitivity and Lenses

At Amen Clinics, individuals seeking clarity on the challenges they face with reading and visual processing can undergo comprehensive testing. The in depth brain imaging conducted by Amen clinics can reveal a hyper-reactive visual system pointing to Irlen Syndrome. This condition, characterized by light sensitivity and difficulty with reading, often goes undiagnosed despite its prevalence. Light sensitivity isn’t just discomfort; it’s a barrier that can hinder one’s ability to interpret the written word effectively. Amen Clinics’ dedication to cognitive research and brain health makes them an ideal setting for those suspecting they have Irlen Syndrome.

The process to determine if someone has Irlen Syndrome begins with an Irlen Syndrome self-test—a simple yet effective way to identify symptoms that may warrant further screening. For some, reading under regular white light can cause discomfort, while colors like blue or yellow might make a significant difference. This is where the use of color becomes vital in the testing. If the self-test suggests the presence of the syndrome, a formal assessment follows, which includes a test of different lenses to see how color can alleviate visual stress.

As testing progresses, Irlen-certified diagnosticians meticulously analyze how individuals react to various light spectrums. This testing isn’t just about identifying Irlen Syndrome; it’s about finding solutions to make reading and other visual tasks more manageable. Through the use of specifically tailored spectral filters, many find that the previously difficult task of reading becomes more effortless. The affirmation that lenses can improve visual processing offers hope to those who’ve struggled silently, often attributing their challenges to personal failings.

Frequent exposure to screens in our digital era has only amplified the difficulties associated with Irlen Syndrome. Irlen interventions are more pertinent than ever, as the glare from screens can escalate light sensitivity issues. The prescribed colored overlays and lenses are tools that have their grounding in years of research, providing empirical support for their efficacy in mitigating the effects of Irlen Syndrome. This syndrome can occur comorbidly with conditions such as autism, adhd, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and other conditions heightening sensory sensitivities, and necessitating a refined approach to diagnosis and management.

Discovering the correct color combinations that assist an individual’s visual processing can be likened to finding the key to unlocking their reading potential. This is the expertise that Irlen Diagnosticians offers through their comprehensive screening and assessment services. To find out more about the approach to diagnosing and managing Irlen Syndrome, prospective patients can visit their website, contact them through email, or make an appointment to explore how spectral filters and lenses can address their light sensitivity and reading difficulties. By tailoring lenses to accommodate individual needs, they enable clients to navigate the visual world with renewed confidence. The Irlen Institute is at the forefront of providing services that bring to light the often unseen struggle of Irlen Syndrome.

Understanding Irlen Syndrome is a critical step towards achieving comfort and success in reading and visual processing. At the Irlen Institute, we are committed to providing accurate screenings and assessments to correctly identify this syndrome. From self-tests that help recognize potential symptoms to more comprehensive diagnostic procedures, our certified specialists are dedicated to aiding individuals in navigating their visual experiences with greater ease. To learn more about Irlen Syndrome testing or to find a qualified professional, visit Irlen.com and start your journey to visual comfort today.

Q: What is Irlen Syndrome, and how does it affect individuals?
A: Irlen Syndrome, also known as Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, is a perceptual processing disorder that impairs the brain’s ability to interpret visual information, resulting in difficulties with reading and other visual tasks. This disorder may lead to symptoms such as text appearing to move, shake, or blur, often making the reading experience strenuous and uncomfortable for the affected individual. It is not identified by standard educational, visual, or medical examinations, but rather through specialized assessments focusing on visual processing difficulties.
Q: How can someone suspect they might have Irlen Syndrome?
A: An individual might suspect they have Irlen Syndrome if they experience difficulty reading where the text seems to vibrate, blur, or create discomfort, particularly under fluorescent lighting or when surrounded by bright colors. A self-test available on Irlen.com is the first step in identifying these symptoms. This test is a simple questionnaire that can help pinpoint specific visual processing challenges and discomforts.
Q: What is involved in the official diagnostic process for Irlen Syndrome?
A: The official diagnostic process for Irlen Syndrome begins with a screening conducted by an Irlen-certified diagnostician. This initial assessment explores how an individual processes visual information and determines if spectral filters can improve visual perception. If the screening suggests benefits from the use of filters, the next step involves precise testing to customize filters in the form of lenses or overlays tailored to the individual’s sensitivity.
Q: Can Irlen Syndrome be treated and if so, how?
A: Yes, Irlen Syndrome can be treated through the use of spectral filters—customized lenses that adjust the hues and densities to cater to an individual’s specific sensitivities to colors and lights. These filters may be used as overlays or incorporated into glasses or contact lenses, making reading and other visual tasks more comfortable and efficient.
Q: Where can individuals get tested or seek support for Irlen Syndrome?
A: Those interested in getting tested or seeking support for Irlen Syndrome can visit Irlen.com for a comprehensive list of services and clinic locations. Irlen.com provides resources, research information, and connections to Irlen-certified diagnosticians.
Q: Is Irlen Syndrome related to other conditions, and can it benefit from similar interventions?
A: Irlen Syndrome can occur comorbidly with conditions such as autism, where sensory sensitivities are heightened. Interventions involving the use of colored overlays or spectral filters can significantly benefit individuals with autism who experience visual processing difficulties associated with Irlen Syndrome. These tailored visual aids help make reading and other visual tasks less daunting and more manageable.

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