Dyslexia

What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning disorder characterized by difficulty reading. It is caused by inherited traits that affect how the brain processes language.

Important: Dyslexia occurs in children with normal vision and intelligence. It is not a sign of low intelligence or laziness.

There is no "cure" for dyslexia, but most children can succeed in school with specialized education programs and emotional support.

Symptoms by Age

Symptoms can be difficult to recognize before school, but teachers often notice them first.

Before School (Preschool)

• Late talking.
• Learning new words slowly.
• Difficulty rhyming or playing word games.

School Age

• Reading well below the expected level for their age.
• Difficulty processing and understanding what is heard.
• Trouble following rapid instructions.
• Seeing letters in reverse ("b" for "d").
• Difficulty spelling.
• Inability to sound out the pronunciation of unfamiliar words.

Teens and Adults

• Difficulty reading aloud.
• Trouble understanding jokes or idioms.
• Difficulty summarizing a story.
• Poor time management.
• Difficulty memorizing names or dates.

Causes & Complications

Dyslexia is linked to certain genes that control brain development. It tends to run in families. These traits affect the parts of the brain concerned with language.

The ADHD Link

Children with dyslexia are at increased risk of having Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and vice versa. ADHD can make dyslexia harder to treat because it causes difficulty sustaining attention.

Other Complications

• Trouble Learning: Falling behind in core subjects.
• Social Problems: Low self-esteem, anxiety, or withdrawal from friends.
• Adult Consequences: If untreated, it can limit career potential.

Diagnosis

There is no single test for dyslexia. Doctors evaluate a combination of factors:

• Developmental History: Questions about family history and early milestones.
• Vision & Hearing Tests: To rule out physical problems causing poor reading.
• Psychological Testing: To check for anxiety or social issues.
• Academic Testing: Analyzing reading quality and language skills.

Treatment: Educational Support

Dyslexia is not treated with drugs (unless treating co-existing ADHD). It is treated through education.

Reading Specialists

Tutoring focuses on:

• Phonemes: Learning to recognize the smallest sounds that make up words.
• Phonics: Understanding that letters represent these sounds.
• Reading Aloud: Building vocabulary and fluency.
• Multi-Sensory Learning: Using touch and hearing to reinforce letter shapes (e.g., tracing letters while saying the sound).

Parental Role

• Read Aloud: Start young (even 6 months old).
• Early Intervention: Getting help in kindergarten or 1st grade significantly improves long-term success.
• Work with Schools: Create an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to ensure your child gets the accommodations they need.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.