Tools & Tips
Many people with Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) ask which tools, strategies or supportive therapies may help them better manage their symptoms. Unfortunately, there is currently no proven treatment that cures VSS. However, some people report relief from certain symptoms through practical aids, lifestyle adjustments or supportive therapies. This page provides an overview of tools, tips and patient experiences. The effectiveness of these approaches varies considerably from person to person. A positive experience does not necessarily mean that the same approach will work for someone else.
Visual Snow Europe Foundation is committed to providing information that is as reliable and evidence-based as possible. Where scientific evidence is limited, we state this clearly and distinguish between scientific evidence and personal experiences. VSS is a recognised neurological disorder. Based on the current scientific evidence, there is no proof that VSS is caused by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety or depression. We therefore believe it is important that people with (suspected) VSS receive an appropriate neurological evaluation and are not given a psychosomatic explanation or labels such as Persistent Physical Symptoms (PPS) or similar conditions without adequate medical justification. Psychological support may help some individuals cope with the impact of living with a chronic neurological disorder, but it is not a treatment for the underlying neurological condition itself.
Important: The effectiveness of the tools and therapies described below varies greatly between individuals. A positive personal experience or a scientific publication does not automatically mean the same results can be expected for everyone.
Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Therapy (NORT)
What is NORT?
Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Therapy (NORT) is a form of visual rehabilitation that focuses on improving the coordination between the eyes and the brain’s processing of visual information. Treatment is provided by a specialised optometrist or neuro-optometric rehabilitation therapist and typically consists of a combination of home-based exercises and in-clinic sessions.
Depending on the practitioner, a programme may include:
- contrast training;
- saccades (rapid eye movement exercises);
- convergence and divergence training;
- depth perception exercises;
- memory exercises;
- NeuroTracker;
- Dynavision.
The duration, content and cost of a NORT programme vary between providers.
Scientific evidence
There is currently limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of NORT specifically for Visual Snow Syndrome. Further research is needed to determine which patients, if any, may benefit from this approach.
👉 Read Frank’s personal experience with NORT.
Vestibular Therapy
What is vestibular therapy?
Vestibular therapy is a specialised form of physiotherapy that focuses on the vestibular (balance) system, eye movements, and the coordination between the eyes, head and brain. It is commonly used for dizziness, balance disorders and certain neurological conditions.
Exercises may include:
- eye-head coordination;
- smooth pursuit eye movements;
- balance exercises;
- gaze stabilisation training.
Many of these exercises can be performed at home under the guidance of a specialised physiotherapist.
Scientific evidence
At present, there is no convincing scientific evidence that vestibular therapy is an effective treatment for Visual Snow Syndrome. However, some patients report improvements in specific symptoms.
👉 Read Frank’s personal experience with vestibular therapy.
FL-41 Glasses
What are FL-41 glasses?
FL-41 is a specialised light filter that was originally developed for people with light sensitivity and migraine. Some people with Visual Snow Syndrome report that FL-41 lenses help reduce sensory overload.
Not all FL-41 lenses are the same. They may differ in:
- filter quality;
- tint intensity;
- light transmission;
- polarisation;
- anti-reflective coating;
- number of filter layers.
In some countries, colorimeters are used to determine the most suitable filter for each individual.
Scientific evidence
There is currently limited scientific evidence supporting the use of FL-41 filters specifically for Visual Snow Syndrome. Patient experiences vary considerably.
👉 Read Frank’s personal experience with FL-41 glasses.
Koninklijke Visio
Koninklijke Visio is a Dutch organisation specialising in visual rehabilitation and support.
Although VSS is a neurological disorder, rather than an eye disease, some people with VSS may benefit from advice on visual aids, light filters or other supportive interventions. Depending on the location, Koninklijke Visio offers a range of assessments and rehabilitation services.
Key Points
- There is currently no proven treatment that cures VSS.
- Responses to therapies and supportive tools vary considerably from person to person.
- Always discuss new treatments or supportive aids with your physician or another qualified healthcare professional.