What is Visual Snow Syndrome?
Visual Snow Syndrome is a neurological condition characterized by persistent visual disturbances that affect one's daily life. Patients often describe their vision as being filled with tiny, flickering dots, similar to static on a television screen. This condition can significantly impact the quality of life, making it essential to understand its symptoms, causes, and treatments. At the Visual Symptoms Treatment Center in Arlington Heights, IL, Dr. Neil Margolis and Dr. Michael DeStefano specialize in diagnosing and managing this complex condition.
How Do People Find Out They Have It?
Diagnosis of Visual Snow Syndrome often starts with a visit to a neuro-optometrist. Patients typically seek medical advice after experiencing unexplained visual disturbances for an extended period. At the Visual Symptoms Treatment Center, a thorough examination, including a detailed patient history and visual tests, helps in identifying the condition. It’s important to differentiate Visual Snow Syndrome from other visual disorders, which is why specialized diagnostic techniques are crucial.
What Are the Symptoms?
The primary symptom of Visual Snow Syndrome is the presence of static-like flickering dots across the visual field. Other symptoms may include afterimages, difficulty seeing in low light, photophobia (sensitivity to light), and visual distortions such as halos or streaks of light. Some patients also report experiencing migraines, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.
What Are the Causes?
The exact cause of Visual Snow Syndrome is not well understood, but it is believed to be related to abnormal activity in the brain’s visual processing areas. Research suggests that it may involve the hyperexcitability of neurons in the visual cortex. Genetic factors, neurological conditions, and even certain medications have been linked to the onset of Visual Snow Syndrome.
What Are the Treatments?
Currently, there is no cure for Visual Snow Syndrome, but various treatments can help manage the symptoms. At the Visual Symptoms Treatment Center, neuro-optometric rehabilitation, which includes customized visual therapy exercises, can be beneficial. Medications such as anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants, and migraine treatments are sometimes prescribed to alleviate symptoms. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as reducing screen time and managing stress, can also help in coping with the condition.