How to Properly Define Dyscalculia 

The Dyslexia Association has two definitions for dyscalculia.

1. A condition that affects the mind’s ability to fully grasp and comprehend arithmetic skills. 
   • People who have dyscalculia will have difficulties understanding simple number concepts.
   • When compared to their peers, they take longer to acquire the number facts and procedures.
   • Have extreme anxiety when it comes to situations including math, even in real-life circumstances such as counting money.
2. A specific learning disorder having to do with mathematics.
   • They have problems with memorizing numbers, memorizing arithmetic facts, and accurate math reasoning. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Is dyscalculia the same as dyslexia?

  • No. Although many people call dyscalculia the “math dyslexia,” both of these conditions are very different. They both are learning disorders but dyslexia deals with words while dyscalculia deals with numbers. 

• Is dyscalculia more common in boys or girls?

  • There have been no case studies done that have linked dyslexia to gender. Dyscalculia can affect both males and females equally. If there is a higher case study for one or the other gender, please remember that these percentages are based solely on people who have been tested. Since several people do not know they have dyscalculia or they have not been tested, it is difficult to come to a concrete conclusion.

• Is it true that dyscalculia is genetic?

  • Similarly to dyslexia, dyscalculia does seem to be “passed on” through genetics; however, it does guarantee that you will have it if someone or several people in your family may have it.
  • If someone in your family has dyscalculia, does it mean that you will have it? No.
  • Are you more likely to get it compared to someone whose family has no known case of dyscalculia? Yes. 

• Can you be both dyscalculia and dyslexic?

  • Yes, they are two different disorders. 
• What are some symptoms of dyscalculia?
  • Signs and symptoms differ depending on age. For more information, please click here. 

• What should I do if I believe I have dyscalculia?

  • If you have a difficult problem differencing whether you have dyscalculia or if you are having trouble with math, you should get tested. Natural supplements such as CBD oil has shown to help.
• Are there any medications that can help with dyscalculia?
  • As of now, no medicine can help dyscalculia. 

• Is there a cure for dyscalculia?

  • No. There is no cure for dyscalculia because it is not a disease; it is a learning condition. However, there are services and learning programs that can help you better understand dyscalculia and further assist you.