.jpg)
.jpg)
Visual stress, sometimes referred to as Meares-Irlen Syndrome or Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, affects the way some people process text and visual information when reading.
Some people may experience difficulty with fine visual tasks such as reading, particularly against bright white backgrounds. Symptoms can vary from person to person and may include blurred or unstable text, light sensitivity, headaches, eye strain or difficulty concentrating when reading for longer periods.
Visual stress and Meares-Irlen Syndrome can affect both children and adults and are sometimes associated with dyslexia, migraines, ME, MS and other neurological conditions. However, visual stress and dyslexia are separate conditions and may not always occur together.
Symptoms can vary from person to person and may affect both children and adults. Some people experience eye strain, headaches, blurred or moving text, light sensitivity and difficulty concentrating when reading for longer periods.
Others may find reading tiring, lose their place whilst reading or experience visual discomfort under bright lighting or against white backgrounds.
.jpg)
If you experience symptoms linked to visual stress or Meares-Irlen Syndrome, we would recommend a full eye examination with one of our optometrists first to rule out other possible causes of visual discomfort.
Following assessment, some people may benefit from coloured overlays, precision tinted lenses or advice on improving visual comfort when reading or using screens.
Treatment outcomes can vary from person to person, but many people experience improved visual comfort and reduced reading strain following assessment and appropriate management.
While treatment does not cure dyslexia, it may help improve reading comfort where visual stress is contributing to symptoms.
What is Meares-Irlen Syndrome?
Meares-Irlen Syndrome is a form of visual stress that can affect reading comfort, concentration and the way visual information is processed when reading.
Is visual stress the same as dyslexia?
No. Visual stress and dyslexia are separate conditions, although some people may experience both.
Can adults experience visual stress?
Yes. Visual stress can affect both children and adults.
Can coloured overlays help?
Some people find coloured overlays or precision tinted lenses improve reading comfort and reduce visual strain.
Do I still need an eye examination?
Yes. A full eye examination is important to rule out other possible causes of symptoms before visual stress assessment.
If you experience symptoms linked to visual stress or Meares-Irlen Syndrome, our team at Euin Steele & Partners can provide further advice and discuss whether an assessment may be suitable for you or your child.