What is visual stress?

Visual Stress (also known as Irlen, Meares-Irlen Syndrome or Scotopic Sensitivity) is a visual-perceptual processing difficulty. It is usually indicated by reading difficulties, light sensitivity and headaches from exposure to visual disturbances. Individuals can experience distortion of text, especially on white paper, fatigue when reading or working under fluorescent lighting. Visual Stress is not an optical issue; it is a difficulty with the brain’s ability to process visual information. The severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person.

Although some individuals with Visual Stress can experience difficulties with reading, it is not dyslexia and can stand alone as a separate difficulty. Visual Stress can be developmental or acquired; however, Visual Stress tends to be prevalent with individuals with Specific Learning Differences.