How Can an Eye Doctor Help with Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects reading, writing, and language processing. While it is primarily a language-based issue, many individuals with dyslexia also experience visual challenges that make reading more difficult. At Clarendon Vision Advanced EyeCare, our developmental optometrists specialize in diagnosing and treating visual processing disorders that can contribute to reading difficulties. Through functional vision evaluations and vision therapy, we help individuals with dyslexia improve their visual skills and make reading a less frustrating experience.

Understanding the Connection Between Vision and Dyslexia

Dyslexia is not caused by poor eyesight, but visual processing issues can exacerbate reading challenges. Many individuals with dyslexia struggle with eye tracking, focusing, convergence, and visual memory. These difficulties can lead to symptoms such as:
 

• Skipping or repeating words while reading
   

• Losing place on a page
   

• Frequent letter reversals beyond the expected developmental age
   

• Eye strain and fatigue after short periods of reading
   

• Difficulty distinguishing similar-looking letters and words

Addressing these visual challenges can improve reading fluency, comprehension, and overall confidence in learning.

Identifying Vision-Related Challenges

At Clarendon Vision Advanced EyeCare, our doctors conduct a functional vision evaluation, which goes beyond a standard eye exam to assess how the brain and eyes work together. This in-depth assessment tests essential visual skills, including:
 

• Eye tracking – the ability to follow words smoothly across a page
   

• Eye teaming (binocular vision) – how well both eyes work together
   

• Focusing ability – the ease of switching focus between distances
   

• Visual perception – how the brain interprets what the eyes see

If any of these visual skills are underdeveloped or inefficient, they can contribute to reading difficulties. A functional vision evaluation helps us determine whether vision therapy could benefit the individual.

Supporting Individuals with Dyslexia Through Vision Therapy

Vision therapy is a personalized, non-invasive treatment program designed to strengthen essential visual skills. It involves guided exercises that train the eyes and brain to work more efficiently. We develop customized vision therapy programs tailored to each patient's specific needs. These programs may include:
 

• Eye tracking exercises to improve reading fluency
   

• Binocular vision training to enhance eye coordination
   

• Visual processing activities to strengthen letter and word recognition
   

• Accommodation training to help with focus and reduce visual fatigue

By improving these skills, vision therapy can reduce visual stress and make reading more manageable for individuals with dyslexia.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Reading Success

If reading difficulties are impacting your child’s confidence and learning, a functional vision evaluation can help determine whether vision challenges are contributing to the problem. Our developmental optometrists specialize in diagnosing and treating vision-related reading difficulties. With a personalized approach, including vision therapy, we can help build the skills needed for more efficient and comfortable reading.

Schedule a consultation with Clarendon Vision Advanced EyeCare to explore how vision therapy can support better reading and learning success for individuals with dyslexia. Visit our office in Westmont, Illinois, or call (630) 323-7300 to book an appointment today.