What are symptoms of Irlen Syndrome?

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Common symptoms of the disorder include reading, spelling, handwriting and math problems, a preference for quiet activities over group activities, difficulty remembering information, difficulty paying attention in class, and an increased risk of anxiety or depression. It is not unusual for an individual with Irlen Syndrome to need accommodations in high school and even college.

Trouble reading and writing

The symptoms of this learning disability vary from person to person. Common signs include poor reading and spelling, struggles with handwriting, and struggles with organization. Other symptoms include hyperactivity, noise sensitivity, and a tendency to feel frustrated or anxious.

Difficulty with organization

Signs of having difficulty with organization may vary, depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, symptoms may include difficulty writing, reading, or paying attention in school, as well as a love of collecting things and hoarding. In more severe cases, symptoms can include struggles with time management, difficulty completing tasks, impulsivity, and anxiety.

Problems with time management

The symptoms of dyslexia and dysgraphia, which are often associated with weak time management skills, can also be symptoms of Irlen Syndrome. If you struggle to read, write or spell, it could be because you have difficulty with the way the brain processes information. While no one knows for sure whether or not dyslexia and dysgraphia are caused by a lack of the right type of brain wiring, research studies have found that there may be a link between these learning disabilities and the way the brain receives and processes sensory information.

Inattention

If you have the condition, you may struggle with certain activities and learn things more slowly than most people. You may struggle with reading, paying attention in class, or even understanding conversations. You may also have a hard time remembering things or making simple errors. These symptoms can definitely make school and other activities more challenging.

Hyperactivity

There are many symptoms of Irlen Syndrome, including motor and attention issues, reading difficulties, poor organization, difficulty with math and language, learning disabilities, poor spatial awareness, and anxiety. Some children, however, have none of these symptoms. Symptoms are more likely to be noticeable in children who have other learning disabilities as well as those who struggle with sensory issues.

Memory problems

Signs of Irlen Syndrome can often be confusing to spot, as they may seem to be related to other conditions. However, when symptoms are present, they tend to be quite distinct from those of other learning or attention disorders. Those with symptoms of Irlen Syndrome are most likely to have difficulty reading, writing, spelling, learning, remembering, and paying attention – in other words, a whole host of learning and memory issues.

Social and emotional issues

Symptoms of Irlen Syndrome are not easy to pin down. That’s because there are no tests to diagnose it. Instead, a comprehensive evaluation is required that includes gathering information from parents and teachers, a vision test and a comprehensive eye test. However, these tests are not always conclusive.

Conclusion

Common symptoms of dyslexia and Irlen Syndrome may include difficulty reading and writing, increased frustration while working or studying, trouble following instructions, poor organization, difficulty with time management, frequent headaches, ear infections, or frequent sore throats. People with dyslexia and/or Irlen Syndrome often have learning disabilities in other areas as well. People with this condition also typically have problems with organization, time management, and attention.