Visuaalihäiriöille

Visuaalihäiriöille, known in English as visual snow syndrome, is a neurological condition characterized by a persistent, often distressing, visual disturbance. Individuals with visual snow describe seeing a fine, grainy or "snow-like" static overlaying their entire field of vision, akin to the static on an old television screen. This visual noise is present in both light and dark conditions and is not a result of poor eyesight or an actual object in the visual field.

Beyond the characteristic visual snow, the syndrome often encompasses a range of other visual anomalies. These can include persistent afterimages, where an image remains visible after the original object is gone, and photophobia, an increased sensitivity to light. Some individuals also experience nyctalopia, or difficulty seeing in low light, and palinopsia, which refers to the perception of repeated or trailing images. Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing in the ears, is also a common co-occurring symptom.

The exact cause of visual snow syndrome is not fully understood. Current research suggests a possible dysfunction in the brain's visual processing centers, particularly in the occipital lobe and associated networks. It is not believed to be an eye disease, as standard ophthalmological examinations typically reveal no abnormalities. The condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, affecting daily activities, concentration, and emotional well-being. Diagnosis is based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation of reported symptoms, as there are no specific diagnostic tests for visual snow syndrome. Management often focuses on coping strategies and treating associated symptoms, as a definitive cure is not yet available.