Sydney Irlen Dyslexia Centre

I assess adults and children with visual processing difficulties, associated with the light sensitivity condition, Irlen Syndrome / Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome (SSS). These difficulties are related to how the brain processes visual information which travels from the eyes through to the back of the brain. This is not a vision problem and cannot be assessed by optometrists or eye specialists. This is a brain based difficulty.

Testing for Irlen Syndrome / SSS can only be carried out by certified Irlen Practitioners.

Irlen Syndrome / Scotopic Sensitivity affects approximately 10 – 20% of the population. It is a condition which contributes to a variety of learning difficulties. It can affect a person’s concentration, behaviour and attitude to learning, and may cause anxiety, low self esteem, frustration and work avoidance.

Indicators of the condition include:
* Sensitivity to light
* Eyestrain / visual stress / fatigue when reading, using the computer or when in bright light
* Difficulties tracking when reading – losing position, repeating lines, using finger / marker as a guide
* Slow, word by word reading
* Slower to complete work
* Poor comprehension
* Distortions with print – print may blur, move, fade, double, merge, disappear
* Poor spelling
* Delayed learning
* Difficulty concentrating and staying focused
* Headaches / Migraines
* Clumsiness – Difficulty judging the distance of objects

It is common for people with Dyslexia, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder to present with visual processing difficulties associated with Irlen Syndrome.

The diagnostic assessment will determine whether Irlen Syndrome / SSS is present. If it is Irlen Spectral Filter Lenses may be recommended to assist with an individuals’ visual processing difficulties.