Irlen Syndrome Information Page

Source: Irlen Institute

Irlen Syndrome is a type of processing problem where the brain is unable to process visual information. It is not currently identified by standardized tests or medical tests. It was formerly known as Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome (SSS). It is not an optical or eye problem.

Irlen syndrome can affect academic and employment, attention, ability to sit still, and concentration. It is frequently confused with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This disorder can look differently for each person. It is not remediable and can be a lifelong barrier to learning and performance. The biggest problem is that the environment looks different for people with Irlen than those without the syndrome.

People with Irlen Syndrome suffer from difficulties with reading print. If you or your child have the following symptoms, Irlen Syndrome might need to be investigated as a cause:

  • 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

Irlen Syndrome suffers have a severe light sensitivity, bothered by most forms of light including glare, fluorescent lights, and even sunlight. Some have headaches, mood changes and restlessness with bright lights. Others feel tired, dizzy or irritable.

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:

  • Words on the page lack clarity or stability; i.e., may appear to be blurry, moving, or disappear.

Treatment is usually colored glasses or overlays.