Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis, inflammation of the optic nerve, presents as sudden onset of visual blurring or loss of vision in one eye, particularly in the central visual field. Eye movement may bring on pain, light flashes, or other visual symptoms.

Management

Optic neuritis is the initial symptom for 16% of people with MS and is a common occurrence during the course of the disease.

Onset to peak presentation usually happens within 4 days, and most recovery is usually achieved by about 5 weeks, although some improvement may continue for up to a year. The pain usually resolves more quickly than the visual acuity.

Treatment with corticosteroids may be introduced and is especially effective at reducing the pain.

Learn more about managing pain and sleep issues.

Key Healthcare Professionals

• Neurologist
• Neuro-ophthalmology
• Ophthalmologist
• Optometrist