Dyslexia - A Troubled Child's Ultimate Learning Hurdle

WHAT IS DYSLEXIA
Dyslexia is a learning disability and condition, rather than a disease, in which the person's brain learns differently. The person will have problems in reading, writing, speaking and understanding.

WHAT CAUSES IT
The main cause of dyslexia has still yet to be confirmed but dyslexia is normally or commonly hereditary. More research is being done into finding the gene that causes this condition.

WHO'S AT RISK
About 5%-10% of a population are likely to be dyslexics. Dyslexia also varies around the the whole world as it depends on the ratio of the sounds to the written letters in the native language. So for an example, a country with a reasonable ratio like Italy would have a relatively low rate of dyslexia compared to countries like England where the ratio is rather different.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A DYSLEXIC
Dyslexics have trouble learning to read and understanding sounds in words, and are mostly confused during learning. For example he/she would pronounce their 'd' as 'b' and they will also confuse up with down, left with right and other forms of directions. A dyslexic would also have trouble with his/her handwriting and he will also start to speak at a later age. Another common problem will be that he/she will have trouble with mathematics.

THE DIAGNOSIS
A thorough complete evaluation will be done to test the child's vision, hearing and intelligence level. Diagnostic tests should be immediately to identify dyslexics and prevent their condition from worsening.

THE TREATMENT PROCESS
Treatment methods are made to suit each each individual's need. Each dyslexic should require a structured language program in which emphasis will be on phonetics rather than on memorizing complete words. They will also be taught to write, speak and use their senses (touch and hearing).

THE FUTURE OF DYSLEXICS
The prognosis is actually very good if dyslexics are treated. Many dyslexics in fact tend to be quite successful and talented in areas such as art and music.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
If dyslexia is left untreated, dyslexics may suffer from low self-esteem, behavioral problems (aggression, delinquency, etc.) and withdrawal from friends and parents.

IN ADDITION
Dyslexics normally tend to have low self esteem at the beginning due to their disability in learning. Effort should be done by everyone to actually help keep their spirits high by giving them endless support and help them all the way.