Differences in Sensory Features of Irlen Syndrome With and Without Coexisting Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Challenges in visual perception and a heightened sensitivity to light characterize Irlen Syndrome. We administered a sensory questionnaire to 82 individuals diagnosed with Irlen Syndrome （mean age 26.4±9.7 years, male: female ratio = 39:43). The questionnaire comprised 321 items spanning eight sensory domains: vestibular, tactile, proprioceptive, visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory, and other senses. Participants were instructed to mark “yes” to items that applied to them. Our analysis focused on contrasting the sensory experiences of participants with Irlen Syndrome alone versus those with co-occurring Autism Spectrum Disorder （ASD). Findings revealed significant discrepancies in 31 items, notably within the vestibular sensory domain. Individuals without co-occurring ASD exhibited a higher susceptibility to visual influences, while those with overlapping ASD exhibited broader sensory problems. The findings suggest that Irlen Syndrome’s visual hypersensitivity may extend to other sensory domains. This underscores the need for appropriate understanding and accommodation of sensory sensitivities in individuals with Irlen Syndrome.