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Visual stress disorder is a condition in which certain patterns, colours, or contrasts cause discomfort and make it difficult to read or focus on text for extended periods. Symptoms can include words appearing to blur, move, or double on the page.
Read on to learn more about our specialised visual stress assessments, visual stress consultancy and personalised management across our branches.
Who does visual stress affect?
Visual stress can affect people of all ages, from schoolchildren to adults in the workplace, and is more common among those with dyslexia or other learning difficulties.
In children, it can hinder reading development and academic performance, making tasks like reading or visually demanding activities tiring and challenging. Adults may experience similar difficulties during work or any activity requiring sustained focus.
Visual stress symptoms
If you or your child identify with one or more of the following symptoms, visual stress might be a factor:
- Difficulty reading or copying from a board
- Words seeming to move, blur, or double on the page
- Eye strain or tiredness when reading
- Frequent headaches, especially after visual tasks
- Sensitivity to light or glare.
These effects can interfere with learning and productivity, so early recognition and support are essential.
Our visual stress services
We offer specialised visual stress assessments and personalised management throughout our branches. Service lead, Dr Laura Monger at our St Ives practice, holds advanced qualifications from the Institute of Optometry (IOO), ensuring you receive expert care. Many locations also provide tools like coloured overlays and screening tests to ease symptoms and support reading.
Assessments typically last around 45 minutes and involve evaluating your visual comfort and reading ability using specially designed tools to identify the most effective colour filters or strategies.
Treatment and management options
Your visual wellbeing is our priority. Treatment options include coloured overlays and tinted lenses that alter the background colour of reading materials to reduce glare and visual discomfort. For children, we may recommend Schoolvision programmes and tailored reading strategies to improve focus and ease eye strain during sight demanding tasks.
Take the next step
Are you concerned about your child’s vision or inability to focus, or experiencing signs of visual stress yourself? Contact your local branch to discuss your symptoms or book an appointment. Early assessment and support can make a real difference, boosting comfort and performance across many areas – and stages – of life.
