About Irlen Syndrome

Understanding Irlen Syndrome

Irlen Syndrome is caused by a defect in the visual pathway that sends messages from the eye to the brain. The disorder alters the way the brain interprets light signals and causes the brain to become overactive when it’s exposed to certain wavelengths of light. It can cause several different symptoms and often affects academic and work performance in those who have it. Irlen Syndrome is a hereditary disorder that tends to run in the family and has not yet been identified by other medical or educational testing. 

Symptoms of Irlen Syndrome range vastly, but one thing that all Irlen sufferers have in common is their inability to properly process visual information. One common misconception about Irlen is that it’s a learning disorder and you have to struggle with reading and other school work to be diagnosed with the syndrome. However, research shows that even people who excel in reading and math can benefit from the Irlen Method if they struggle with visual information processing. 

To get the help you need to overcome your Irlen Syndrome symptoms, you first need to be properly screened by a certified professional. Once the diagnosis has been made, you’ll work with your Irlen Method professional who will provide you with an effective solution for treatment. 

Possible Signs and Symptoms of Irlen 

As stated above, the signs and symptoms of Irlen Syndrome are wide-ranging. If you notice any of the following signs, then you may want to consider being screened for Irlen Syndrome:

Headaches/Migraines
Eye Strain
Fatigue
Deficient Comprehension
Slow or Insufficient Reading Skills
Words and Environment look Different
Poor Math Computation Abilities
Difficulty Copying Words and Letters
Trouble Reading Music
Low Motivation/Self Esteem
Low Sports Performance Ability
Poor Depth-Perception
More specifically, Irlen Syndrome sufferers will often notice one or several symptoms such as:

Light Sensitivity
Reading Difficulties
Discomfort such as Headaches and Fatigue
Attention and Concentration Difficulties
Problems with Writing
Distortions of Words such as Blurriness and Moving/Floating Words or Phrases

Treating Irlen Syndrome


In order to successfully treat Irlen Syndrome, you must first be tested. Testing is usually done in a two-step process consisting of problem identification and color identification. This process requires two testing sessions where families will also be involved throughout the evaluation. The first testing session will determine whether or not you have Irlen Syndrome and will be followed by a determination of your correct colored overlays. The second testing session is saved for those who show moderate to significant improvement with their colored overlays and will determine the exact wavelengths of light that are causing your problems. Wearing the proper color correction can help dissolve Irlen symptoms and will help you work through your visual perception problem.
Schedule A Screening Today!
605 Sierra Rose Dr, Suite 5
Reno NV 89511
775.745.0402irlenofreno@gmail.com