Visual snow syndrome (VSS) is a neurological disorder characterized by disruption in the quality and processing of the visual image, as well as disruption in other sensory processing areas. While the condition varies in presentation, the following are the most common symptoms
- Visual snow (static, flickering dots, or flashing lights)
- Palinopsia (persistent after-images)
- Photophobia (light sensitivity)
- Photopsia (flashes of light) or small floating objects
- Tinnitus
- Paresthesia
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Depersonalization
- Insomnia
- Brain fog/confusion
- Frequent migraines
- Dizziness/nausea
These symptoms are constant and occur even with eyes closed.
WHAT CAUSES VISUAL SNOW SYNDROME?
The exact cause of VSS is unknown, but research has shown differences in the brain’s ability to integrate complex sensory information. VSS has a correlation to patients who have experienced a concussion or other ABI event, and even with some medications. Some patients have been told they have scotopic sensitivity syndrome, or that their vision problems are a result of anxiety.
They find relief when
someone can finally understand and describe what they have been experiencing and provide solutions.
TREATMENT FOR VISUAL SNOW SYNDROME
We see cases of VSS in our clinic on a weekly basis. The best treatment protocols for VSS include specialty lens tints, color overlays, syntonics, and optometric vision therapy. We have found that VSS patients have underlying binocular and accommodation problems, which significantly increase their symptoms. We prescribe the specialty tints that are shown to be most successful in treating VSS, do Cerium color overlay assessments, and offer syntonics and vision therapy as treatment options.
RESOURCES
There has been a significant amount of research recently studying visual snow syndrome, and the website Visual Snow Initiative (www.visualsnowinitiative.org) is an excellent resource for patients and providers. As always, we are happy to communicate with you regarding potential referrals or difficult cases.
