How do I take care of myself if I have visual snow syndrome?
While there’s no definitive treatment for visual snow syndrome, it's a good idea to see a neuro-ophthalmologist to check for other causes of your symptoms. Many people find that symptoms get worse when they’re under stress or don’t get enough sleep.
If this is true for you, you can find ways to relieve stress and avoid fatigue. Some choices for stress relief may include:
- Exercise that you enjoy.
- Yoga.
- Meditation.
- Mindfulness.
- Massage.
- Reiki.
There are also things you can do to improve your sleep. These include:
- Keeping a sleep schedule. Get up and go to sleep at about the same time every day.
- Having a comfortable sleep environment (your bed, pillows and room temperature).
- Avoiding caffeine, nicotine and alcohol — particularly late in the day.
- Avoiding screen use late in the day.
When should I see my healthcare provider about visual snow syndrome?
It’s important to see your provider any time you experience changes in vision. If you already have a diagnosis of visual snow syndrome, ask your provider for specific directions on when you should contact them. Follow their recommendation for how often you check in going forward.
You may have other questions for your doctor, including:
- Am I eligible for clinical trials?
- Can you suggest ways of dealing with stress or improving sleep?
- Can you suggest a support group for me?
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Developing a new or worsening eye condition can be very stressful, especially when the causes are unknown. If you find yourself seeing constant “snow” or “static” throughout your visual field, contact your eye care provider.
