How to Diagnose Dyslexia in Adults

Overview

Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects the way that the brain converts letters, words and numbers seen by the eyes. Dyslexia results in difficulty reading and understanding written words and images, and is most often recognized in childhood, as a child struggles in school to learn to read and write. Sometimes, dyslexia isn't recognized until adulthood. Adults with dyslexia can learn to overcome the disability, but first, it must be diagnosed. While only a doctor or trained professional can diagnose dyslexia, you can learn the warning signs and seek a professional diagnosis.

Step 1

Recognize the signs. Signs of dyslexia in adults include difficulty reading or interpreting written words, spelling problems and difficulty learning a new language. Even math can pose a problem for adults with dyslexia, as the numbers can be difficult to read. Dyslexic adults may also notice that they have trouble retaining information that they read, particularly any lengthy reading material. Handwriting may also be messy, and dyslexic adults may find that they are easily distracted and have trouble concentrating.

Step 2

Find a doctor to diagnose dyslexia. Seek an expert in diagnosing dyslexia for the best results. This medical professional should be very familiar with diagnostic testing methods for dyslexia, and be able to offer suggestions for treatment and management of dyslexia.

Step 3

Provide a medical history. One of the first steps after you meet with the doctor is to talk about your medical history. Inform the doctor of any health conditions, mental health problems or neurological conditions that you have had.

Step 4

Eliminate other possibilities. It's important to rule out other potential causes of dyslexia symptoms. A doctor may test your hearing, eyesight and neurological function, as well as evaluate you psychologically to see if an underlying issue, like anxiety or depression, may be responsible for the dyslexia symptoms.

Step 5

Undergo testing. There isn't a blood test or a scan to diagnose dyslexia, but that doesn't mean it's impossible to spot the problem. Special tests, which gauge an individual's intellectual and academic capacities and language skills, can identify if dyslexia is the cause of the symptoms.