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Learning Disabilities

Specific learning disorders can be managed with early diagnosis and individualized education.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Learning Disabilities?

Specific learning disorder (DSM-5) is defined by significantly below-expected performance in one or more of the skills of reading, written expression, or mathematics despite normal intellectual capacity. The most common form is dyslexia (reading difficulty), and it is estimated to affect 5-15% of school-age children.

In dyslexia, the difficulty is related to phoneme-sound matching (phonemic awareness) and fluent reading process; it cannot be explained by visual or intellectual problems. In dysgraphia, handwriting and written expression are difficult, while in dyscalculia, number operations and mathematical reasoning are challenging.

Diagnosis of learning disabilities is made with standard psychoeducational assessment tests; co-diagnoses such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression are common and should be addressed together.

Symptoms

Marked delay or difficulty in learning to read (dyslexia)
Low performance in reading comprehension
Poor and difficult-to-read handwriting (dysgraphia)
Marked difficulty in numbers and arithmetic (dyscalculia)
Low achievement in dictation and written composition
Marked gap between academic performance and IQ

Risk Factors

Family history of dyslexia or learning disability
Male sex (mild predominance)
Prematurity or perinatal complications
History of speech-language delay
Co-diagnosis of ADHD
Inadequate language support in bilingual environment

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When markedly behind peers in learning to read or do math
  • When no academic progress is made despite home help
  • When the child begins to refuse school or show anxiety symptoms
  • For psychoeducational assessment and IEP (individualized education plan)

Treatment Methods

01
Individualized education plan (IEP): legal guarantee in school setting
02
In dyslexia: phonemic awareness-based reading interventions (Orton-Gillingham method)
03
In dysgraphia: occupational therapist support and writing tools (keyboard, voice recognition)
04
In dyscalculia: concrete math teaching methods
05
Treatment of co-diagnoses (ADHD, anxiety)
06
Psychological support: for self-efficacy and motivation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.