Not Every Case is the Same
Everyone with Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) sees “Visual Snow”, or static, 24/7. They can also experience one, several, or all of the other visual and non-visual symptoms associated with VSS. But the appearance and intensity of these symptoms often vary from person-to-person. Having VSS is not the same experience for everyone. Based on a myriad of factors, this condition can impact each person’s quality of life differently. Sharing what VSS is like for you can help establish further understanding. For more information on study participation and factors that account for case-by-case differences in VSS, please view the resources below.
Clinical Trials
In addition to the following databases, we also share study participation opportunities and information related to VSI-funded/supported clinical trials and research studies via our website, newsletter, and social media.
Different Types of Visual Snow
Your VSS Timeline
Considerations:
- How long have you had VSS?
- Were you born experiencing symptoms of VSS, or did you experience onset later in life?
- If you were NOT born with VSS, did you experience the spontaneous onset of VSS? (Did you get VSS out of nowhere?)
- Or were there any signs or symptoms before the onset of VSS?
- Opinion: Do you have a personal theory about what caused your VSS/how you got it?
Your VSS Symptoms
- Which symptoms of VSS do you experience?
- Have you always experienced the same symptoms?
- Have new symptoms appeared over time?
Do your symptoms fit the Diagnostic Criteria for VSS?
Different Types of Visual Snow
- Is your VS static achromatic (black, grey, or white), transparent, or chromatic (colorful)?
- If chromatic, which specific colors (blue, red, etc.)?
- Is the density of your VS static mild, moderate, or severe?
- Is the speed of your VS static fixed, slow, moderately fast, or rapid?
- Are your VS static particles tiny/pixelated, medium, or large?
- When are your symptoms most noticeable? (For example, when you first get up in the morning, trying to sleep at night, against light surfaces, etc.)
Personal Impact
- Does having VSS impact your life to a minimal, moderate, or severe degree?
- Have you made any lifestyle adjustments to adapt to your VSS? (For example, wearing tinted lenses, avoiding fluorescent lights, etc.)
- Differences in perspective and personality
- Personal theories or beliefs
- Do you have a support system? (family/friends or medical)
- Lifestyle (stress levels, physical activity, etc.)
- Have people you know or your school/job made any accommodations for your VSS?
Any VSS Triggers or Improvements
- Have your VSS symptoms gotten better, worse, or remained the same?
- What, if anything, makes your VSS worse?
- What, if anything, helps your VSS improve?
Your Medical History
- Has a medical professional diagnosed you?
- Do any members of your family also have VSS?
- Do you have any other medical conditions besides VSS?
