Colorimetry Assessment Specialists
Do you experience Dyslexia, Visual Stress, or other reading difficulties?
What is Visual Stress?
Visual Stress, also known as Meares-Irlen Syndrome, is a sensitivity to visual patterns, especially stripes. It can cause perceptual problems that interfere with reading, despite normal vision. One scientific explanation suggests that it’s caused by hyperactivity in the brain's visual cortex, which can be eased by using specific colours tailored to the individual.
Symptoms of Visual Stress
People with Visual Stress may experience:
- Movement of printed text
- Blurring or distortion of letters
- Patterns in the print (like ‘rivers’ or ‘worms’)
- Halos of colour around words
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Frequent headaches
- Red, sore, or watery eyes
Signs of Visual Stress
Behaviours associated with Visual Stress include:
- Constantly moving closer to or further from the text
- Fidgeting or moving the book around
- Using a finger as a guide
- Skipping or re-reading words or lines
- Poor reading comprehension
- Frustration or low self-esteem
Visual Stress and Photosensitive
Migraine
About 40% of migraines can be triggered by visual stimuli like flickering lights or patterns. Precision tinted lenses may reduce the frequency of visually induced migraines. Recent research shows that these lenses can calm hyperactivity in the brain's visual cortex, especially when selected using the Intuitive Colorimeter. These lenses can also help with other neurological conditions such as autism, MS, ME, and Parkinson’s.
Is this Dyslexia?
While Visual Stress is more common in people with Dyslexia, the two are not the same. Visual Stress can occur in non-dyslexic individuals as well and is often misdiagnosed as Dyslexia. Once Visual Stress is treated, any remaining issues related to Dyslexia can be more easily managed.
A Solution
Visual Stress can be alleviated with the use of coloured filters, such as overlays or tinted lenses. However, the colour must be tailored to the individual, typically using the Intuitive Colorimeter. A full eye examination is required before prescribing precision tinted lenses. These lenses can improve reading fluency, accuracy, and comfort.
If you would like more information about how Colorimetry could help, please contact our specialist optician, Karen Shadbolt.
Prices
Colour Overlay Assessment £59.00
Extra Overlay sheets £10.00
Colorimeter Assesment £59.00
Lenses start from £150.00
