The symptoms of Irlen Syndrome are wide-ranging, but the use of coloured overlays focuses on addressing one core problem: the brain’s inability to process visual information (perceptual processing difficulty).

What to Look For

Reading Problems:

• Misreads words; prefers to read in dim light; skips words or lines; reads slowly or hesitantly; takes breaks; loses place;  poor comprehension; avoids reading

The student may complain of print that shifts, shakes, blurs, moves, runs together or disappears. Reading on white paper is often uncomfortable and requires rereading for comprehension.

Complaints While Reading

• Tired or sleepy; eyes hurt, ache or feel itchy; headaches or nausea; fidgety or restless; light sensitivity

Other Signs

• Rubs eyes; squints; blinks; opens eyes wide; reads close to or further from the page; uses a finger or a marker when reading.

*More information can be found at www.irlen.com.