Abstract
A study in Korea led by Dr. Hyun-jin Shin examined 63 people with Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) to better understand its symptoms, possible triggers, and treatment responses in the Korean population.
Methods
We reviewed past medical records of people diagnosed with VSS at a large hospital in Korea between March 2021 and February 2024. Information collected included visual and non-visual symptoms, events patients believed triggered their VSS, and other health conditions (both physical and mental). Brain scan results from MRI and PET scans were analyzed, and responses to different treatments, including tinted lenses, were recorded.
Results
The study included 27 men and 36 women, with an average age of 27 years, and an average symptom onset age of 22 years. Common symptoms were floaters (small shapes or spots in vision), afterimages, anxiety, and depression. Fourteen participants reported their VSS began after eye-related procedures, such as laser vision correction surgery or bright-light eye exams. PET scans showed higher-than-normal activity in the visual areas of the brain in about 82% of participants, while MRI scans did not show unusual results. Tinted lenses helped about 32% of participants reduce symptom intensity, with other treatments providing modest benefit.
Conclusion
People in the Korean population with VSS showed symptoms, brain scan findings, and treatment responses similar to those reported in Western countries. Eye surgeries and bright-light exams may trigger VSS in some individuals. Since treatments only help some people, a combined approach — including tinted lenses, medical care, and mental health support — may offer the best chance of improving quality of life.