Visual Stress Assessment at Parkhurst and Co.
Support for reading discomfort and visual fatigue
Visual stress can cause discomfort, difficulty reading and problems with concentration, particularly during tasks involving dense text or prolonged near work. Some people describe words appearing to move, blur, shimmer or become uncomfortable when reading.
At Parkhurst and Co, we offer Visual Stress Assessments to determine whether precision-tinted spectacle lenses may help reduce these symptoms and improve visual comfort.
A Visual Stress Assessment is not a dyslexia assessment and does not diagnose dyslexia, learning difficulties or educational needs. However, some schools, colleges or educational professionals may recommend an assessment where a child or adult experiences visual discomfort during reading or screen use.
A Visual Stress Assessment is also not a routine eye examination. It is a specialised appointment carried out following a recent eye test to assess whether colour may improve visual comfort when reading or using screens.
Please read the information on this page carefully to ensure the assessment is suitable before booking.
👁️ What’s Included in a Visual Stress Assessment
Your assessment will be carried out by a qualified optometrist with experience in identifying the signs and symptoms associated with visual stress.
Your appointment may include:
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Detailed discussion of symptoms
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Evaluation of reading comfort and speed
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Assessment of visual distortions or discomfort during reading
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Determining whether colour provides a measurable improvement
Every assessment is personalised to ensure we understand the nature of your symptoms and whether colour could offer relief.
What Visual Stress Is and Is Not
Visual Stress Is:
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Sensitivity to patterns on a page
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Movement, glare, or distortion of text
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Eyestrain, headaches or fatigue when reading
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Difficulty concentrating during near work
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Symptoms that may be improved with specific colours
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Visual Stress Is Not:
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A test for dyslexia
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A substitute for a full eye examination
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A diagnosis relating to educational needs
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An assessment for school or exam concessions
Visual stress can occur in anyone — with or without dyslexia or other learning differences.
Typical symptoms include:
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Words appearing to move, blur or jump on the page
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Glare or brightness from white backgrounds
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Lines of text appearing to swirl, fade or distort
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Eye strain or tired eyes when reading
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Headaches during or after near work
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Losing place on the page or skipping lines
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Difficulty concentrating when reading
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Slow or effortful reading
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Sensitivity to certain patterns or black-and-white contrast
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Needing frequent breaks during reading or writing
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Reversing letters or numbers (sometimes reported)
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Reduced comprehension due to visual discomfort
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can coloured lenses cure visual stress?
They do not cure it, but they may reduce symptoms and improve reading comfort.
Does visual stress mean I have dyslexia?
No. Visual stress can occur with or without dyslexia.
Are coloured overlays and tinted lenses the same?
No. Coloured overlays and precision-tinted lenses are different, although both are designed to help improve visual comfort. Coloured overlays are typically used as a temporary or trial aid when viewing text, whereas precision-tinted lenses are individually prescribed and incorporated into spectacle lenses for more consistent everyday use.
Do we provide reports for schools requesting extra time, learning support or exam concessions?
No. Parkhurst and Co does not provide reports for schools, examinations or educational needs assessments.
The purpose of a Visual Stress Assessment is to identify whether precision-tinted spectacles may help reduce visual discomfort and improve visual comfort when reading or using screens.
☎️ Book Your Eye Examination
Call your local Parkhurst & Co. branch
Or book online at:
We're here to help you look after your vision.