Navigating dyslexia can be challenging, but understanding its connection to visual processing is key. Explore how vision therapy can aid those with dyslexia.
Dyslexia is a language-based learning disorder that primarily affects an individual’s ability to read, write, and spell. It is important to remember that dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence—in fact, many highly successful individuals have overcome or learned to work with this challenge. Although dyslexia originates in the brain, many individuals with this condition also experience visual processing issues that can complicate reading and learning.
Dyslexia is characterized by difficulties in recognizing and processing sounds within words, which leads to challenges with decoding and fluent reading. This condition is often described as a disruption in the way the brain interprets visual and auditory information. While dyslexia itself is not considered an eye problem, there may be related vision difficulties which can contribute to the reading struggles associated with the disorder.
Dyslexia may show up in various ways, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe. Understanding these characteristics can help in identifying and addressing the challenges it presents:
Even though dyslexia is rooted in how the brain processes language, many individuals with dyslexia experience overlapping visual processing difficulties. When our eyes send information to our brain, problems with visual processing can disrupt the focus and coordination needed for smooth reading. It is not uncommon for children and adults with dyslexia to also face issues such as eye strain, poor tracking, or difficulties with visual attention.
People sometimes assume that having 20/20 vision is enough for reading success, but that is not always the case. Visual processing involves the brain’s ability to interpret and organize the information that our eyes capture. With dyslexia, even when the basic visual acuity test is passed, there might be challenges with:
Here’s the thing: these issues can create additional obstacles for someone already facing difficulties with reading. Our eye doctors recognize that effective treatment can involve addressing this dual challenge so that both the language-based and visual components are improved.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and start your journey toward better reading and learning outcomes.
The signs of dyslexia vary with age, and early identification is key. Both children and adults can exhibit symptoms that suggest they might benefit from further evaluation. Below are some common signs that may indicate dyslexia:
Because many symptoms of dyslexia overlap with those of vision-related learning problems, distinguishing between the two is crucial. For instance, clues such as consistent headaches during reading, double vision, or the habit of tilting the head or closing an eye while reading can suggest a vision component that might be addressed independently of the brain’s phonological processing challenges.
Our eye doctors conduct comprehensive evaluations which assess not only the standard visual acuity but also look at vital aspects such as:
This detailed assessment helps determine whether a child’s difficulties are due to dyslexia alone, a vision problem, or a combination of the two. Recognizing the nuances in the symptoms is the first step in establishing the most effective treatment plan.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and start your journey toward better reading and learning outcomes.
Dyslexia involves complex learning challenges. Discover how vision therapy can help address visual processing skills for better reading.
