What is Meares-Irlen Syndrome or Visual Stress?

Approximately 20% of the population report problems when looking at a page of words, even when wearing glasses they have been prescribed.

Symptoms ranging from:

·      Headaches or migraines after reading

·      Visual discomfort, strain or fatigue

·      Pattern Glare: words appear to move, wobble, flicker, shimmer or shadow

·      Misreading words

·      Reduced reading speed

·      The page appears too bright

·      The words appear too close together

When root causes of vision clarity, focusing issues or eye muscle imbalances have been eliminated, this condition is referred to as Visual Stress of Meares-Irlen Syndrome.

The symptoms are caused by an over-reaction of certain neurons in the visual cortex of the brain to specific wavelengths of light, resulting in the visual disturbances and discomfort. Stripy patterns at specific frequencies are most likely to trigger pattern glare and high contrast, densely printed (or digital) text, often falls within those frequencies.

How do we assess Visual Stress at Eyetek?

Studies show that for appropriately selected patients, individually prescribed coloured lenses or overlays can have beneficial effects not only on symptoms, but also on immediate reading performance.

Every patient must first undergo a comprehensive binocular vision exam. This entails a full test of visual acuity or clarity but also examining eye health, focusing and eye muscle coordination to ensure that the symptoms are not caused by other functional problems. An effectively functioning visual system is the foundation of visual comfort and reading.

What is Colourimetry?

To measure a tint that may be effective, a colourimetry assessment is needed. Colourimetry is the process of selecting coloured lenses to improve reading and reduce visual strain.

The Irlen testing method involves an Irlen light machine and Irlen lenses imported from overseas. We have found this method to be unaffordable for many patients in our region. This is why we made the choice not to work with the “Irlen” brand.

At Eyetek, we use the “Intuitive Overlay” and the scientifically backed ReadEZ (Read-Easy) method for evaluating Visual Stress or Meares-Irlen Syndrome and the effect of colour on reading.

Studies show that the colour required to achieve an optimum response varies between individuals and may change over time.

Colourimetry testing is not part of the routine eye examination. If you or your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, speak to your optometrist to see if coloured lenses or overlays may be right for you.