Irlen Syndrome

Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome (SSS)

"A PIECE OF THE PUZZLE FOR READING PROBLEMS, LEARNING DIFFICULTIES, AD/HD, DYSLEXIA, HEADACHES AND OTHER PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS THROUGH THE USE OF COLOUR"
- quote from the Irlen website
http://www.irlen.com

This is an extensive website produced by the Helen Irlen Institute in America. It describes how people have been found to have a wide range of difficulties with reading, and how these difficulties can sometimes be controlled or minimised by careful use of colour.

There are self-tests, checklists and a range of symptoms described, along with example pictures of some of the ways that reading is distorted.

Link to: Irlen Syndrome and Scotopic Sensitivity pages

NOTE: There is a clear warning on the site that they say their method is not the same as the coloured lenses etc provided by opticians, and that incorrect application of colour will produce eye strain and other reading problems. Addresses are provided for their certified "Diagnosticians" in the United Kingdom.

There is also a smaller UK specific site, with some of the same information, as well as the centre addresses and contact information.

UK Irlen centres at www.irlenuk.com

As with all web site links, I have no way of validating the accuracy of the information displayed, but this does seem to match up with other information about the use of colours, and with the personal experiences of a WCDA member. Also remember the main site is American, so terms and definitions may vary from British meanings.

Ian Talbot

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West Cumbria Dyslexia Association: Contact Doris Pearce 07863 329747

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