At Richard Petrie Optometrists, we offer a range of specialist eyecare services designed to go beyond routine eye examinations and strive to continually evolve our knowledge, services and products to best serve our community. Investing in advanced technology and extended consultation time, we provide in-depth assessments and personalised care for patients with specific visual needs.
Our specialist services are delivered by experienced clinicians and are tailored to support the individuality of our patients and their needs so that they can thrive.
Visual Stress Screening & Colourimetry
Visual stress can make reading and visual tasks uncomfortable or challenging. Symptoms may include headaches, eye strain, words appearing to move or blur, difficulty concentrating, or reduced reading speed, particularly in children and young adults and more common amongst neurodiverse individuals.
We offer Cerium Visual Stress Screening, a structured assessment designed to identify signs of visual stress and determine whether coloured filters or lenses may help reduce symptoms. We measure and calculate rate of reading scores in order to assess whether a specific colour makes a measured difference or not.
If visual stress is indicated we offer coloured overlays to test out and can progress on to carry out Precision Colourimetry, which allows us to identify an exact colour and density that can improve visual comfort and clarity. These colours can then be incorporated into spectacles, overlays, or contact lenses where appropriate.
This service is particularly beneficial for:
Children struggling with reading or schoolwork
Individuals with dyslexia or related learning differences
Patients experiencing unexplained visual discomfort during near tasks
Our aim is to provide clear answers, practical solutions and tailored recommendations to help improve visual comfort and confidence where there may be difficulties without support.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for any further details
Visual Stress Screening & Colourimetry – FAQs
What is visual stress?
Visual stress is a condition where the brain struggles to process visual information comfortably, particularly during reading. Symptoms may include headaches, eye strain, words appearing to move or blur, poor concentration or slow reading speed.
Who can benefit from visual stress screening?
Visual stress can affect both children and adults. It is commonly seen in children who struggle with reading or learning, and in individuals with dyslexia or visual discomfort during close work.
What is colourimetry?
Colourimetry is a precise assessment using an instrument that identifies the exact colour and intensity of filter that can reduce visual stress symptoms. This colour can then be incorporated into spectacle lenses or overlays.
How is visual stress assessed at the practice?
We use Cerium Visual Stress Screening, a structured assessment carried out during a dedicated appointment. This allows us to identify symptoms and determine whether coloured lenses may help.
Can coloured lenses help everyone with reading difficulties?
Coloured lenses are not suitable for everyone. Our role is to assess, advise and recommend solutions only where there is clear clinical benefit.
EnChroma® Lenses for Colour Vision Deficiency
Colour vision deficiency affects the way some people perceive certain colours, which can impact daily life, learning and career choices. At Richard Petrie Optometrists we offer EnChroma® lenses a specialist solution designed to enhance colour perception for people with red–green colour vision deficiencies.
Following a comprehensive colour vision assessment, we can advise whether EnChroma lenses may be suitable for you. These advanced lenses work by filtering specific wavelengths of light, helping to improve colour contrast and clarity.
EnChroma lenses are available in both spectacle prescription and indoor/outdoor options, and can be worn for everyday activities, work or leisure. While results vary between individuals, many wearers report a more vivid and differentiated colour experience. We identify suitability during a preliminary trial in the practice where you can wear the lenses for a while we reassess colour perception after some time wearing the lenses.
Our role is to provide honest, impartial advice supported by clinical assessment to help you understand whether EnChroma lenses could offer meaningful benefits for your visual needs.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for any further details
EnChroma® Colour Vision Lenses – FAQs
What is colour vision deficiency?
Colour vision deficiency affects how certain colours are perceived, most commonly reds and greens. It is usually inherited and affects more males than females.
What are EnChroma® lenses?
EnChroma lenses are specialist lenses designed to enhance colour contrast for people with specific types of colour vision deficiency by filtering wavelengths of light thus changing colour perception and for some, making colours easier to distinguish. This can be uplifting for soe individuals living with more vibrant colours in their world.
Do EnChroma lenses work for everyone?
No. EnChroma lenses are most effective for certain types of red–green colour vision deficiency. A full colour vision assessment is essential to determine suitability.
Are EnChroma lenses available with prescription?
Yes. EnChroma lenses are available in both prescription and non-prescription options, including everyday glasses and sunglasses. They are also available in indoor and outdoor options.
Will EnChroma lenses cure colour vision deficiency?
EnChroma lenses do not cure colour vision deficiency, but they may help enhance colour perception and improve visual experience for some people.
Book your appointment
Book online or by phone with one of our experienced team members. All eye examinations are carried out with expert care and attention to detail to ensure the best experience for you.