Is There a Cure for Visual Snow Syndrome? A Deep Dive into NORT and Its Potential

Visual snow syndrome has long been a mysterious and frustrating condition for those who suffer from it. But could we finally be on the cusp of a breakthrough in its treatment? Today, we’ll explore some newly published research that examines the use of Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Therapy (NORT) as a potential remedy for visual snow syndrome. We’ll also guide you on how to find a specialist who might offer this treatment. Stick around until the end for all the details!

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Understanding Visual Snow Syndrome

Hey there, friends! Dr. Joseph Allen here from the Dr. Eye Health Show, where we help you learn everything you need to know about your eyes and how to keep your vision in tip-top shape.

Let’s begin by understanding what visual snow syndrome really is. If this is your first time hearing about visual snow, or if you’re new to the channel, you might be wondering what this condition entails. Visual snow syndrome is a complex, often misunderstood neurological disorder that primarily affects a person’s vision.

The most striking symptom of visual snow is a persistent overlay of moving spots or flashing white dots that cover your field of vision—imagine the static on an old television set, or the grainy effect you might see when you crank up the ISO on a camera too high. This “snow” can be seen at all times, even when you close your eyes.

For some, this visual disturbance is mild, almost unnoticeable unless they focus on it. I, myself, have experienced visual snow since I was around nine years old. It’s subtle enough that it doesn’t interfere with my daily life, but if I zone out and look around, I can definitely see the static. However, for others, visual snow can be debilitating. Some individuals find it so overwhelming that they struggle to read, drive, or perform basic daily activities.

Visual snow syndrome doesn’t stop at just the visual disturbances. It often comes with a host of other neurological symptoms, including tinnitus (a ringing in the ears), afterimages, photophobia (sensitivity to light), and difficulties with night vision. I’ve covered these symptoms and the proper diagnosis of visual snow syndrome in more detail in a previous video, which you can check out [here].

What is Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Therapy (NORT)?

Now, onto the exciting part—new research has been published that investigates the use of Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Therapy (NORT) as a treatment for visual snow syndrome. This study, published at the end of 2022, brings new hope to those affected by this challenging condition.

But what exactly is NORT? NORT is a specialized form of vision therapy. Vision therapy, including a subset known as orthoptics, involves a series of eye exercises designed to improve the coordination and function of the eye muscles. Orthoptics is traditionally used to treat binocular vision problems, such as double vision, by training the brain and eye muscles to work together more effectively.

However, NORT and broader vision therapy have expanded beyond just treating visual issues. Today, they’re also used to address a wide range of conditions, including those resulting from traumatic brain injuries, and now, potentially, visual snow syndrome.

The Study: A Closer Look at NORT for Visual Snow Syndrome

The study in question involved 21 participants, each undergoing 12 weeks of NORT. While this is a relatively small sample size, the results provide a fascinating glimpse into the potential benefits of this therapy.

Participants engaged in a variety of eye muscle exercises during their 12-week program. These sessions were conducted once a week with a vision therapist or eye doctor, lasting about an hour each. In addition, participants were given “homework”—exercises to practice on their own throughout the week. These exercises are designed to gradually increase in difficulty, continually challenging the participants’ eye muscles.

Let’s break down some of the specific exercises used in the study:

• Accommodative and Vergence Muscle Control: This exercise focuses on your ability to shift your focus between near and distant objects. Participants looked through lenses that made objects appear blurry. The challenge was to use their eye muscles to focus and clear the image, then switch to lenses that made the image blurry again, forcing the eyes to relax. This process of alternating between focus and relaxation helps train the eye muscles, improving overall visual focus and control—much like how lifting and lowering weights strengthens arm muscles.

• Saccadic Eye Movements: Saccades are rapid movements of the eye as it jumps from one point of focus to another. This exercise involves darting your eyes from side to side, focusing on different objects in your field of vision. Improving saccadic movement enhances your ability to track moving objects, making your eye movements more precise and controlled.

• Fusion Exercises: Fusion exercises help train the brain and eyes to work together to create a single, cohesive image from what each eye sees. One exercise used in the study involved a Lifesaver card, which features red and green circles. Participants were asked to cross their eyes until the two circles merged into a single, flashing red and green Lifesaver that appeared to lift off the paper. This exercise challenges the eye muscles and improves their ability to work together, especially in terms of depth perception and focusing.

These exercises are just a few examples of the wide range of techniques used in NORT. The goal of these exercises is to enhance the coordination and efficiency of the eye muscles, which in turn can improve visual function.

Results: Did NORT Help with Visual Snow?

So, what did the study find? Here’s the key takeaway: NORT did not eliminate the visual snow symptoms. Participants did not report significant improvements in the static or flashing dots that characterize visual snow syndrome. Additionally, there were no major changes in ocular health, ocular pain, color vision, or peripheral vision.

However, the study did reveal some positive outcomes. Participants experienced improvements in visual function for both distance and near vision. More importantly, there were statistically significant improvements in several areas that directly impact quality of life, including:

• Social Functioning: Participants reported feeling more comfortable and confident in social situations, which is crucial for maintaining relationships and participating in community activities.

• Mental Health: The study found improvements in participants' mental health, which is often negatively impacted by the constant visual disturbances associated with visual snow.

• Role Difficulties: Participants found it easier to fulfill their roles at work, school, and in their personal lives.

• Dependency: There was a decrease in participants’ reliance on others for daily tasks, a common challenge for those with severe visual snow.

• Overall Quality of Life: Perhaps the most significant finding was the improvement in overall quality of life. Even though the visual snow symptoms persisted, the ability to better coordinate eye movements and improve focus translated into better day-to-day functioning.

While it’s important to emphasize that NORT is not a cure for visual snow syndrome, these improvements are promising. For those who struggle with daily activities like reading, using a computer, or driving, even a slight reduction in symptoms can make a significant difference in quality of life.

Would You Consider NORT?

Now, I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you have visual snow syndrome, would you consider going through a 12-week vision therapy program, even knowing that it won’t completely eliminate your visual snow symptoms? It’s also worth noting that a program like this can be costly—ranging anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for the full 12 weeks. Would it be worth it to you if it meant improving your quality of life? Let me know in the comments below.

How to Find a Specialist Offering NORT

If you’re intrigued by the idea of trying NORT, the next step is finding a specialist who offers this type of therapy. Here’s how you can go about it:

1. Check the NORA Website: Start by visiting the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association (NORA) website. NORA specializes in neuro-optometry, which focuses on visual issues related to brain injuries and other neurological conditions. They have a directory of doctors who are members of the association. Simply enter your zip code or location, and you’ll find a list of specialists near you who may offer vision therapy or NORT.

2. Call Local Clinics: If you don’t find a specialist through NORA, another option is to call around to local eye clinics. Ask if they offer vision therapy or have experience working with patients who have visual snow syndrome. You can also inquire if they’re aware of the recent study and if they’d be willing to consider NORT as a treatment option.

3. Discuss the Study: When speaking with a specialist, it may be helpful to bring up the study. Explain that you’re interested in exploring NORT as a potential treatment for visual snow syndrome and ask if they’d be open to reviewing the research. While the study is small and more research is needed, a specialist who is knowledgeable about NORT may be willing to offer it as part of your treatment plan.

Final Thoughts

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If you have any further questions about visual snow syndrome, NORT, or anything related to eye health, feel free to leave a comment below. We’re here to help you keep an eye on your vision and ensure you’re seeing your best.