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Visual stress, also known as Meares-Irlen syndrome or visual discomfort, refers to a condition where individuals experience discomfort or difficulty when reading or viewing printed text.
Research suggests up to 20% of the population experience discomfort when reading.
This condition can significantly affect daily activities such as reading, writing, and even performing tasks that involve prolonged focus on printed materials. Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage and alleviate the symptoms of visual stress, including the use of coloured overlays, coloured glasses, and specialised screening tools like Read EZ.
An important tool at Simon Falk Eyecare for identifying visual stress is Read EZ software, which functions as a screening device to help determine whether an individual is experiencing visual stress. Unlike conventional reading tests, Read EZ uses a unique approach to assess visual comfort by simulating the effects of coloured overlays and lenses on digital screens.
The Read EZ software allows users to interact with text on a digital platform while adjusting various visual settings such as background colour, text colour, and contrast. By observing how a person responds to these changes, the software helps determine if visual stress is present and what specific interventions—like coloured overlays or glasses—might be effective.
The key benefit of Read EZ as a screening device is that it offers a non-invasive and user-friendly way to assess the presence of visual stress. It can be particularly useful for individuals who may not be aware that visual stress is affecting their reading ability or those who have struggled to find effective solutions. Through this tailored approach, Simon Falk Eyecare professionals can provide personalised recommendations for managing visual stress based on the results of the screening.
One of the most widely used interventions for visual stress is the application of coloured overlays. These thin, coloured sheets are placed over reading materials to help reduce visual distortions and discomfort. Coloured overlays work by modifying the wavelength of light that enters the eyes, which can help to stabilise the visual experience for people with visual stress. The colour of the overlay can reduce glare, improve contrast, and reduce the sensitivity to light that some individuals experience.
Overlays are available in various colours, and the most effective overlay may vary from person to person. This is because each individual’s visual system may respond differently to specific wavelengths of light. At Simon Falk Eyecare, a professional optometrist can conduct assessments to determine the ideal colour of overlay to use for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
For individuals who experience ongoing visual stress or discomfort, coloured glasses may be a more permanent solution compared to overlays. Coloured lenses in glasses are custom-made to filter certain wavelengths of light and reduce the visual noise that contributes to visual stress. Unlike overlays, which can only be used when reading, coloured glasses can be worn throughout the day, providing continuous relief from symptoms of visual discomfort.
The lenses in coloured glasses work similarly to overlays, but with the added benefit of being more portable and practical. Coloured glasses can be worn while performing everyday tasks such as driving, working on a computer, or attending school. For many individuals, coloured lenses can enhance reading comprehension, reduce eyestrain, and help them focus for longer periods of time. The right colour of lenses can vary depending on the individual's specific visual needs, which is why a thorough evaluation is necessary.
For more information about our Colorimetry service, please do not hesitate to contact us.
"Simon Falk eye care offers a service which in my opinion is second to none!
The practice offers a great personal and efficient service, with knowledgeable staff who are also superbly helpful and accommodating. Simon's dedication to his profession, and to the use of cutting edge technology has proved invaluable to my family in helping to diagnose and treat some reading difficulties that my daughter was experiencing. I can highly recommend this practice."
Barbie
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