How to Manage Optic Neuritis

Optic Neuritis, or ON, is caused when the optic nerve becomes inflamed. This can be caused by diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, viral infections and some medications. Whatever the cause, Optic Neuritis symptoms include sudden blurry vision, eye pain, foggy vision and changes in color vision. In some cases blindness occurs

Instructions

1. Standard medicine advocates the use of IV corticosteroids to treat Optic Neuritis, however, there is no evidence this helps improve visual acuity after one year.

2. When having an acute ON flare, your eyes will become tired more quickly. Resting the eyes frequently often helps.

3. Increase the resolution on your computer screen or use voice recognition and text reading software. These technologies help decrease eye strain and pain.

4. Try a pair of polarized sunglasses, both indoors and out. Wearing polarized sunglasses blocks out extra light waves, making it easier for your eyes to filter and process light. Colors may become clearer and blurriness may be reduced.

5. Warm chamomile tea bags applied to each eye will help soothe your eyes and relieve pain.

Tips & Warnings

• Optic Neuritis usually clears up on its own with in 4-10 weeks.

• Oftentimes, ON is a first symptom of Multiple Sclerosis, so consult your doctor if this is your first attack.

• Treat your eyes gently during a bout with ON.

• Over the counter pain medications usually relieve eye pain.