Optic Neuritis: Understanding the problem
Optic Neuritis is because of an inflammation of the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. This swelling causes decreased vision. This loss of vision can be scary. but it can be treated without sequelae. Let’s delve into what optic neuritis is, its causes, and the steps to ensure your eyes receive the care they deserve.
What’s Optic Neuritis?
The optic nerve is like the messenger, delivering visual information from your eye’s retina to your brain. It is characterized by inflammation affecting the optic nerve. This disrupts the seamless connection between the eyes and the brain. Eventually, this causes a breakdown of the transmission of visual information from the retina to the brain.
Spotting the Signs
Symptoms include blurred vision, blind spots, or even a complete loss of vision. You might also notice your vision playing tricks on you – colors might not be as vibrant, and moving your eyes could bring on some pain. These signs are like little red flags, telling you it’s time to pay attention to your eye health.
Causes and Associations
Optic neuritis can affect anyone. However, it is more common in adults under 45, especially women. It is often associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune condition leading to the destruction of protective nerve coverings.
Other causes include infections, certain medications, and even some hereditary conditions (eg Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy). Optic neuritis can affect one or both eyes.
Here is a list of possible causes:
- Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder
- Anti-MOG Ab associated Syndrome
- Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
- Infections such as viruses (eg herpes simplex), cryptococcus, toxoplasma
- Certain medicines (eg ethambutol, vigabatrin)
- Nutritional deficiency
- Toxins (methanol, alcohol poisoning)
- Alcohol and tobacco
Finding Clues and Solutions
Your eye doctor, as usual, will begin with a comprehensive eye examination. Special diagnostic tests, include optical coherence tomography and visual field assessments. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the optic nerves and brain may diagnose the underlying cause.
Optimizing Treatments
Recent studies have proven the efficacy of combined intravenous (IV) and oral steroid treatments. Moreover, high-dose intravenous steroids have shown promise in reducing the risk of recurrent optic neuritis and the subsequent development of MS. Rarely, some patients may need a plasma exchange (PLEX).
Prognosis and Recovery
The first week is the worst, with vision worsening before stabilization. Subsequently, your vision will recover. About 95% of individuals experience significant vision recovery within six months.
However, recurrences are common, depending on underlying cause.
The Optic Neuritis Conversation between your Neurologist and Ophthalmologist
Your ophthalmologist and neurologist collaborate for the treatment of the disease. They’ll guide you through the journey, ensuring your overall health and that of your eyes.
