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Summary
Visual Snow Syndrome is a devastating neurological condition that can affect an individual’s vision, hearing, and cognitive functioning. Most often, the condition causes a person to process visual information abnormally, making normal life more difficult.
The exact cause of Visual Snow is still unknown. Research indicates a probable connection between hyperactivity in the visual cortex of the brain and the origin of this syndrome. Moreover, Visual Snow is a neurological (brain-related) condition, not ophthalmological (related to the eyes) in nature. It is a brain-processing issue unrelated to the structural integrity of the eyes.
The diagnosis of Visual Snow Syndrome is difficult because although it affects the eyes, ophthalmologic/optometric examinations typically yield “normal” results. There is not yet an evidence-based treatment or current cure available for Visual Snow.
Visual Symptoms
- Snow-like dots all over the field of vision
- Small floating objects or flashes of light
- Sensitivity to light (Photophobia)
- Continuing to see an image after it is no longer in the field of vision (Palinopsia)
- Seeing images within the eye itself (Entoptic phenomena)
- Other visual effects such as starbursts, halos, and double vision (Diplopia)
Non-Visual Symptoms
- Ringing, humming, or buzzing sounds (Tinnitus)
- Feeling detached from yourself (Depersonalization)
- Symptoms of anxiety and/or depression can sometimes develop as a result of having to deal with a constant medical condition like Visual Snow
