There are many different types of sensitivity syndromes, with scotopic sensitivity syndrome being one of the most prevalent, but also one of the lesser known conditions. This is also known as Irlen Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome and is a visual and perceptual disorder that can affect problems with reading, writing, and also with general social functioning. It is often linked with light sensitivity syndrome or central sensitivity syndromes, though each condition is sometimes treated individually. Some individuals with this condition are misdiagnosed with autism, epilepsy, or other conditions. This is why it is so important to be aware of the symptoms of the condition and to seek out ways to treat them.

Many people experience the difficulties of Irlen Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome such as eye strain, light sensitivity syndrome symptoms, fatigue or generalized tiredness, headaches or migraines, nausea, frequent bouts of motion sickness, depth perception issues, hand eye coordination issues, restricted fields of view, restricted spans of recognition, being uncomfortable with overly bright or overly busy patterns or stripes, visual stressors, pattern glare, discomfort with contrasts of dark and bright, discomfort with backlighting, discomfort with reading, discomfort with "shiny" paper, feeling as though the text on a page moves or shakes, attention issues, concentration issues, epileptic seizures, and sensitvity to strobe lighting. Unfortunately for sufferers, however, many practicioners still fail to recognize this condition and other types of central sensitivity syndromes as legitimate issues. This can make it difficult to know what proper preventative measures, other than regularly getting health and visions check ups, should be. Some advise that learning to read or write too early can cause this condition. Others feel that young children should be kept away from strobe lighting, video games, and too much television as these are being researched as to their role in causing the condition. Fortunately, however, this syndrome is actually very rare. Many people will experience these types of symptoms without actually having the disorder. Occassionally having vision issues, such as when tired, is normal and does not mean there is a problem with one's health or functioning. It is only when problems occur consistently and interfere with one's quality of life or with one's education or abilities that it becomes a real problem.

As for treatment, the use of tinted lenses in glasses can sometimes be helpful. A professional will test the individual's reading ability both while the patient is wearing the glasses and while the patient is not wearing the glasses. The results can vary immensely. Some patients report a complete ceasing of symptoms, while others only have mild results or no results at all. Some people simply learn to live with and work around this condition, while others seek out spiritual or more holistic treatments. Therapy to help individuals with this condition be better able to respond to social cues, social norms, or that deals with issues of the disorder that impair social functioning may also be beneficial. It may sometimes see difficult to find real help, but it is important that those who suffer from scotopic sensitivity syndrome actively try to seek out some kind of help to improve their lives.