Understanding Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis is a condition in which the nerve fibers of the eye become inflamed. As a result, the proper flow of information to the brain is interrupted, causing the visual acuity of the individual to decrease. There is usually a fair amount of pain connected with this condition. Repeated episodes may cause permanent damage to the optic nerve.

One of the more common causes for optic neuritis has to do with the immune system. When the body is unable to fight off infection, the end result can be the development of health issues that cause the system to begin attacking the sheaths that cover key nerve fibers transmitting data from the optic nerve to the brain. People with multiple sclerosis have an increased risk of developing optic neuritis, although there are people with MS who never have to deal with this particular associated ailment.

There are other causes that could trigger the development of optic neuritis. Sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis may lead to this type of disorder of the eye. Bacterial infections as well as viruses such as HIV or various forms of hepatitis can also lead to inflammation of the optic nerve. People suffering with cranial arthritis are also at greater risk for developing optic neuritis. Diabetics are also at a greater risk than the majority of the population.

The ongoing symptoms of this eye disorder include several changes in the way the eye functions. Blurry vision is one of the first signs to develop, followed closely by an inability to distinguish certain colors. Along with becoming blurry, the range of vision may begin to narrow, with peripheral vision gradually darkening over the course of a few days. There is often a great deal of pain, leaving the eyes feeling sore and with a sensation that is somewhat like having sand kicked into the eyes.

In many cases, optic neuritis will begin to disappear on its own, if proper diet is used to strengthen the immune system. However, if the situation does not improve within a few days, medical care should be sought in order to avoid permanent damage to the eyes. Fortunately, there are a couple of treatments that can make a big difference in very little time.

Intravenous steroids, carefully administered under the care of a doctor, can help to lessen the pain and expedite recovery from this disorder. However, this type of therapy does not necessarily assure there will be no damage to the eyes. If there was already damage at the time the treatments commenced, chances are the medication will not repair or restore that portion of lost sight.

Often, the intravenous treatments are followed up with a short round of oral steroids. The typical time frame for the oral medication is roughly a maximum of two weeks, although the doctor will assess the situation and may recommend the treatments continue for a longer or shorter period of time.

For the most part, people will regain a full range of vision within six months of receiving treatments, if they have experienced a single episode. However, the opportunity for full recovery lessens when an individual has undergone several bouts with this condition. Doctors can help design a regimen that will help keep the immune system strong and thus minimize the chances for additional episodes.