Irlen syndrome

Irlen syndrome (also known as scotopic sensitivity syndrome, visual stress, and light-based visual processing problems) is a visual processing deficit related to a hyper-reactive visual cortex that can lead to a variety of documented physical and visual symptoms. Some skepticism of the concept still exists; however, current neuroscience research has successfully documented differences in brain function among this population versus those without the condition. Early research on Irlen syndrome produced mixed results; however, the overwhelming majority of studies conducted over the last 40 years have documented the benefits of using precision-tinted colored lenses to address a variety of related symptomology, including: reduction in physical symptoms that include headaches, migraines, eye strain, fatigue, and light sensitivity; and improved functioning and success in both academia and the workplace.

The condition was proposed in the 1980s.