Inflammation of the optic nerve
Inflammation of the optic nerve affects the cluster of neurons that carry visual information from the eye to the brain. Pain and temporary loss of vision are common symptoms of inflammation
Inflammation of the optic nerve is associated with multiple sclerosis, a disease that causes inflammation and damage to nerves in both the brain and spinal cord. In some people, signs and symptoms of the disease first begin with inflammation of the optic nerve
If the patient has had one episode of inflammation of the optic nerve, it is likely that vision will be restored without problems. The use of steroids speeds up the healing process
The exact cause of inflammation of the optic nerve is unknown Inflammation of the optic nerve is thought to occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath that covers the nerve. The immune response is manifested by inflammation
Normally, myelin helps transmit electrical impulses from the eye to the brain, where visual information is perceived. Inflammation of the optic nerve impairs this process, which also affects vision
Inflammation of the optic nerve is associated with autoimmune diseases:
- Multiple sclerosis Multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheaths not only in the brain but also in the spinal cord. With inflammation of the optic nerve, the chance of developing multiple sclerosis is up to 50% in one episode.
The risk of developing multiple sclerosis after optic nerve inflammation is even higher if brain damage is confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. - Optics of neuromyelitis In this condition, inflammation spreads to the optic nerve and spinal cord The disease is similar to multiple sclerosis, but unlike it, it does not damage the nerves in the brain Optic nerve inflammation in neuromyelitis is more severe than optic nerve inflammation associated with multiple sclerosis.
- Other autoimmune diseases such as sarcoidosis, systemic lupus are also associated with inflammation of the optic nerve.
Other factors are:
- Infections Bacterial infections such as Lyme disease, syphilis, rubella, rubella, herpes may be associated with inflammation of the optic nerve.
- Medications Some medications are associated with inflammation of the optic nerve An example is ethambutol, which is used against tuberculosis
Inflammation of the optic nerve often develops in one eye Symptoms are:
- pain During inflammation of the optic nerve, they often complain of pain Patients describe a dull pain behind the eye
- Loss of vision With inflammation of the optic nerve, most patients complain of a temporary decrease or loss of vision, although the severity varies. Sight decreases in a few hours or days Exercising or taking a warm bath aggravates the condition Sometimes, vision problems are permanent
- Color vision impairment Inflammation of the optic nerve weakens the ability to distinguish colors The patient may say that the colors seem darker, duller
- Lightning During inflammation of the optic nerve, some patients describe flashes of light
When to consult a doctor Eye diseases may be complicated Some diseases cause permanent vision loss See your doctor if:
- You have new symptoms, such as pain or vision changes
- Symptoms get worse or do not improve with treatment
- You have unusual symptoms, such as loss of sensation, weakness in your limbs, that may indicate a neurological disorder
