Definition

Optic neuritis is swelling of the optic nerve in the eye. It makes it hard for the nerve carry images from your eye to your brain.

The Optic Nerve Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

The exact cause of the swelling is not known. It may be linked to multiple sclerosis.

Risk Factors

It is most common in people who are white and those who live in high latitudes.

Symptoms

Some people do not have symptoms. In people who do, symptoms may happen quickly or slowly over time. They may be:

• Eyesight problems, such as blurring, darkening, or dimming
• Eyesight that is worse during exercise or in hot climates
• Poor color vision, such as dull and faded colors
• Seeing flashes of light
• Eye pain, especially when moving the eyes

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. An eye exam will be done to test your visual function. A doctor who treats eyes may need to see you.

Images may be needed of your head. This can be done with an MRI.

Blood tests may be done to diagnose causes. A lumbar puncture may also be done to check for problems in the fluid around your spine.

Treatment

Some people may get better with time. Others may need to be treated to improve vision and keep it from getting worse. This can be done with steroid medicine to ease swelling of the nerve.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent optic neuritis.