This syndrome not only affects reading, but it also affects spelling, handwriting, driving, sports, and of course, one's self concept. Just imagine trying so hard in school and having nothing to show for it. After a few years of this, you realize that you just aren't smart. This might not necessarily be the case, but you don't have any evidence to show that you are smart. People with SSS see a variety of patterns on a page of text.
Some people see a page as washed out.
They can see an outline of a letter, but the center is hollow. Some people see the words as a halo. The letters are shadowed. Others may see the page of text swirling. It's a little difficult to keep turning the book to follow the words.