Irlen® Syndrome

About Irlen® Syndrome

What does your typical Irlen® Syndrome client look like?

Irlen® Syndrome symptoms include headaches, academic or reading difficulties, severe light sensitivity – especially to fluorescent lighting, and difficulties with concentration or staying focused on tasks.  Our clients range in age from 6 to 75 years of age.  Irlen Syndrome is genetic and runs in families.  It can also be acquired through head trauma such as concussions or a traumatic brain injury.

Here is an example of Irlen® Syndrome distortions…

What is the first step?

The first thing we do is to determine if the person has Irlen® Syndrome.   It affects 15-20 % of the general population, almost half of individuals with reading difficulties and migraine headaches, and many individuals identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Many people are misdiagnosed with dyslexia or ADHD when the underlying factor of their learning challenges  is Irlen Syndrome.

If I think I have Irlen® Syndrome how do I find out?

We will have you complete a self-test of symptoms of Irlen® Syndrome.  In reviewing the self-test with you, we look at the difficulties that you currently have.

How long does an Irlen® screening take?

The next step is to complete a screening, which takes approximately 90 minutes.  The screening determines if you have Irlen® Syndrome, the types of visual distortions, reading difficulties, and physical symptoms you are experiencing, and the color of overlay to alleviate those symptoms when you are reading or viewing printed information.   The screening also help to determine if you are a good candidate for Irlen® Spectral Filters.

How do I get Irlen® Spectral Filters?

Our Irlen® Diagnostician can determine a precision tint for Irlen® Spectral Filters.  This comprehensive appointment usually takes 2.5 hours to complete.  We order individualized Spectral Filters from the Irlen® Lab.  Both non-prescription and prescription lenses can be tinted.