What Is Dyslexia and What Are the Chances I Might Have It?

Exactly what is dyslexia? There is a fair amount of confusion over this because the term “dyslexia” actually has two meanings.

There is the strict academic definition that says that dyslexia is a compound word made up of “dys” (as in dysfunctional) meaning problems with or not working, and “lexia”, having to do with books and reading. Then there is the commonly used definition that refers to a whole constellation of different types of dyslexia, affecting hearing, planning, time consciousness, ability to recognize symbols for numbers, etc. in addition to reading.

How many people have dyslexia? And how can you tell if you are dyslexic or not?

Approximately ten to fifteen per cent of the entire population has some form of dyslexia. All are different and affected to different degrees. If you have problems with reading or spelling or reading aloud, these are symptoms of dyslexia. The only way to know if your are dyslexic is by way of dyslexia testing.

The screening level of dyslexia testing is usually a questionnaire asking about a number of things, some will be dylexia symptoms. If a screening test finds enough symptoms, then a full dyslexia test is generally recommended.

In the last few months a highly accurate professional test has been tested and is now available online. This means you can take a home dyslexia test from the privacy of your office or home.

95% of adult dyslexics have never been tested and are unaware that dyslexia is what makes them “different” and causes them problems. Once tested, the restrictions that plague dyslexics can easily be overcome. A whole new world opens up to them after dyslexia testing.

Disclaimer: This posting is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with dyslexia. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed to be medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other medical specialist.

By – Veronica Smith