WHAT IS COLORIMTERY?
If the results are positive, the test indicates the ideal tint. The colour and depth of the tint required is different for everyone.
The optometrist will review the results of the colorimetry with each individual.
The following symptoms indicate you may be suffering from visual stress:
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Tired when reading
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Letters changing size or shape
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Halos of colour surrounding letters of words
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Red, sore, watery eyes
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Blurring of print
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Patterns on print
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Tiring easily when reading
WHO COULD BENEFIT FROM COLORIMETRY?
DYSLEXIA
Dyslexic patients can sometimes experience a dramatic and life-changing improvement in the comfort, clarity and fluency of their reading. For others it can be less dramatic, but still greatly improves their comfort and stamina for reading and writing. We are working alongside local schools and colleges to help their students in this way and we have found that those using coloured overlays benefit from Colorimetry testing.
Many patients also benefit if they suffer from ‘pattern glare’ or ‘visual stress’ when reading and writing (or using computer screens and other mobile devices, such as iPads and mobile phones). This is true even if they have not been diagnosed with dyslexia. Such patients comment that these tasks are made much easier and more comfortable with the precision tint, and that they feel less tired and more efficient.
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
Autism can also be dramatically helped in many cases, and a precision tint is thought to be of significant benefit in at least 80% of such patients!
Migraine is another problem that can be significantly improved with Colorimetry and a precision tint. During the test it usually becomes very obvious if the tint will help, as there can be a marked improvement in comfort noticed by the patient with the correct tint, and a reduction in the visual trigger to migraine can be expected to follow.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A COLORIMTRY ASSESSMENT?
If using the overlay significantly improves reading, the next test we recommend is an Intuitive Colorimetry Assessment. This allows precision tinted lenses to be prescribed in glasses.
At this appointment, our Optometrist will find the exact hue (colour) and saturation (darkness of colour) that helps relieve the visual stress symptoms. This piece of equipment can prescribe from up to 100,000 colour combinations. Spectacle lenses are then tinted in this exact colour and can be used for reading as well as looking at computer screens and whiteboards.
The optimal colour which will benefit each individual can change over time, especially with children. It is therefore important that the patient visits regularly for re-evaluations.
WHAT NEXT?
Many of the above difficulties can be helped or alleviated with an accurate up to date spectacle prescription so you should start by booking a sight test with Eyesite Eyecare Centres and mention your interest in Colorimetry. If it appears that you may also benefit from Colorimetry, this will be discussed during the sight test. The fee for the Colorimetry test is currently £50.00, and the results are reviewed with your optometrist afterwards, before any spectacles are dispensed. You can book an appointment with your local Eyesite branch via our Book an Appointment