Irlen Syndrome

What is Irlen Syndrome?

Irlen Syndrome is a visual perceptual processing disorder. This is a neurological condition rather than an ocular condition, however it can be treated with overlays and Irlen filters, or lens. There are many causes including:

  • Genetics

  • Head injury

  • Traumatic events

The result of this condition is an overactive brain which can cause difficulty in many areas of ones life. Areas that may be affected include but are not limited to:

  • Academic and athletic performance

  • Attention

  • Behavior/ irritability

  • Coordination

  • Fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Reading

Common Symptoms

Common symptoms of Irlen Syndrome include:

  • Eyestrain and light sensitivity

  • Difficulty with reading, spelling, and math

  • Dry or itchy eyes

  • Nausea

  • Fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Difficulty sitting still

  • Clumsiness

  • Pain or discomfort when looking at bright colors or bold patterns

  • Task avoidant behaviors

  • Sensory overload

Who does Irlen Syndrome Affect?

  • 14% of the general population including gifted students who perform well academically.

  • 33% of individuals with ADHD or other behavioral issues.

  • 46% of people with learning disabilities and reading disabilities such as Dyslexia.

  • 70% of individuals with head injuries.

  • 80% of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Additionally, members of the military and people who struggle with migraines, depression, and anxiety.

Irlen Syndrome Distortions

The video below contains examples of what a person with Irlen Syndrome might experience when they attempt to read. A person might experience many of these to varying degrees of severity.

Learn more

Sources

Irlen. (n.d.). Retrieved January 12, 2023, from https://irlen.com/

Learn more about IRLEN syndrome and how to treat it. Amen Clinics Learn More About Irlen Syndrome and How to Treat It Comments. (2019, January 14). Retrieved January 12, 2023, from https://www.amenclinics.com/blog/learn-more-about-irlen-syndrome-and-how-to-treat-it/

Tosta, S. (2017, November 15). You need to know about IRLEN syndrome. LDT. Retrieved January 12, 2023, from https://www.learningdisabilitytoday.co.uk/irlen-syndrome