Entoptic Phenomena literally translates as “phenomena inside the eye”. A heightened awareness of Entoptic Phenomena is part of the clinical classification of Visual Snow Syndrome.



Entoptic Phenomena are seen within the wider population, particularly those who are older when their eyes physically deteriorate.



Those with Visual Snow may however see these phenomena more clearly and frequently irrespective of their age, or the physical condition of their eyes.



Normally networks in the brain are able to filter out unimportant or insignificant signals. However in Visual Snow Syndrome signals appear to be unable to be filtered down as normal.



Changes in entoptic phenomena in this way have nothing to do with physical deterioration of the eye if they come together with Visual Snow. Physical deterioration can of course however occur irrespectively.



So while these phenomena can be annoying and at times more noticeable than the actual Visual Snow, they are not a cause for panic.



Most complaints about Entoptic Phenomena seem to be about blue field entoptic phenomenon and floaters, these may be sometimes confused for each other and blue field entoptic phenomenon may in cases be confused for Visual Snow.