What Is Optic Neuritis?

Optic neuritis is usually a temporary condition that’s caused by swelling of the optic nerve due to multiple sclerosis, lupus, or other types of infection. Because it’s responsible for carrying the signals that interpret images to your brain, a swollen optic nerve may affect your vision. To learn more about this sometimes painful eye condition, talk with your eye doctor in Pittsburgh, PA.

Is Optic Neuritis Always Temporary?

Optic neuritis will go away once it has been treated, and vision usually returns to normal. However, there are instances when the vision loss caused by swelling of the optic nerve becomes permanent. For this reason, it’s vital to see your eye doctor if you’re experiencing any unusual changes in vision.

What Are the Symptoms of Optic Neuritis?

Signs and symptoms of optic neuritis include:

• Dull ache behind the eye that worsens with eye movement
• Difficulty distinguishing between colors
• Peripheral vision loss
• Loss of vision in one eye
• Sensation of flashing or flickering lights

One or more of these warning signs could indicate optic neuritis, or they could be early indicators of another serious disorder. Book an appointment with your eye doctor in Pittsburgh, PA, if you’re experiencing vision problems.

What Can Be Done to Treat Optic Neuritis?

Your eye doctor may be able to treat instances of optic neuritis with steroid medications. In more serious cases, plasma exchange therapy may help you recover lost vision, though this treatment is still in its early stages. The key to having a positive outcome is an early diagnosis. This may prevent serious or permanent vision loss in some patients.

Help for Optic Neuritis in Pittsburgh, PA

Lappen Eye Care provides diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions such as optic neuritis in Pittsburg, PA. Our friendly and experienced eye professionals are waiting to talk with you. Call today to schedule a consultation.