Read this Blog post for more detailed information on the differences between Irlen Syndrome and Dyslexia.

What is Visual Processing Disorder?

Visual Processing Disorder, also known as Irlen® Syndrome, appears to be caused by a defect in one of the visual pathways that carries messages from the eye to the brain. This defect causes a timing fault in processing visual information.

It is as if the brain was a radio and the frequency selector was not quite on the station, so that static interfered with the reception.

A Visual Processing Disorder cannot be identified through standard psychological, educational or optometric testing. It is not an ophthalmological or optometric problem, but may co-exist with it.

It can affect both adults and children, manifesting itself differently for each individual and interfering with a range of activities which can be a lifetime barrier to learning.

What are the common Signs of Visual Processing Disorder?

• Visual Distortions: letters or words look blurry, move, fade, or swirl on the page
• Physical Discomfort: frequent headaches, migraines, eye strain
• Reading Issues: slow reading speed, poor comprehension, or skipping lines
• Poor Depth Perception: trouble judging depth, distances or stairs
• Strain and Fatigue, Headaches: dizziness from bright or fluorescent lights, headlights at night
  
• After Traumatic Brain Injury or Concussion: light sensitivity, issues with attention and concentration

What can help Visual Processing Disorder?

Some people respond really well to spectral filters – overlaying a colour on what you are reading.

For people with Irlen® Syndrome, using either Coloured Overlays (placed over paper) or Spectral Filters (worn as glasses) can improve physical discomfort and print distortions the individual experiences when trying to read.

This intervention is non-invasive, and the improvements in reading and physical discomfort are often immediate.

Professionals trained in the Irlen® Method are able to determine the specific colour required for each individual’s brain.

NOTE: Coloured lenses provided by optometrists and vision specialists to treat reading problems are NOT the same as the Irlen® Method. These professionals do not have the right colours, or diagnostic process for colour selection. Inaccurate colour selection can result in headaches, eye strain, and fragmented brain processing resulting in more distortions and reading problems.

Frequently Asked Questions