Optic neuritis: symptoms, causes, therapy

The optic nerve is a very important component of the human visual apparatus.In the presence of disorders and pathologies of his work, it is possible to develop diseases of various degrees of severity and complexity, as well as a rapid decrease in the quality of vision.One of the most dangerous diseases of this type is neuritis. Anomaly is difficult to treat, therefore it is necessary to monitor the condition of the optic nerve during the entire life cycle.

Definition of disease

Optic neuritis is an inflammatory disease that is often accompanied by lesions in the visual apparatus, leading to a decrease in visual quality.The disease proceeds very quickly and also causes the visual acuity to decrease suddenly, while in the later stages it can completely deprive the person of visual functions.

Rapid reduction in visual acuity is one of the most pronounced signs of the emergence of nerve pathology. If this phenomenon is detected, you should immediately consult a doctor, since treatment can return all visual functions only in the early stages.

Types and Classification

In ophthalmology today, there are two types of disease:

• Plain- affects the nerve disc directly, affects it at the initial stages of development.
• Retrobulbar- disrupts the work of the axial bundle of nerve fibers of the eye. Pathology is localized to the eyeball.

Most often, pathology is observed only on one side, bilateral type of neuritis is much less common.

It is also possible to distinguish two forms of anomalies: acute and chronic. With acute vision can be lost in a few days, with chronic - the process proceeds slowly.

In the absence of treatment, the inflammatory process from one-sided to the bilateral phase.

Causes

Often the disease occurs as a complication of the development of other infectious-type diseases.Neuritis causes:

• Inflammation of parts of the brain (encephalitis, meningitis);
• Diabetes;
• Infections acute and chronic (sore throat, syphilis, influenza, tuberculosis, smallpox, etc.);
• Gout;
• Traumatic injuries;
• Inflammatory processes in some parts of the visual apparatus - iridotsiklity, retinopathy, retinoschisis, uveitis, keratitis;

• Poisoning (including alcohol);
• Complicated pregnancy;
• Appearance of neoplasms.

In the presence of one of the listed pathologies, it is necessary to undergo preventive examinations with an ophthalmologist.

Symptoms

The main sign of the appearance of optic neuritis is the rapid loss of visual quality.Other most pronounced symptoms may vary considerably depending on the type of disease.

Simple neuritis:

• Blind spots in the visual field, the inability to see approximate objects and objects;
• Myopia (can be reversible and irreversible);

• Fall of twilight and night vision;
• Disorders associated with the perception of colors.

The first signs of an anomaly of this type can appear already on the first-second day and subsequently intensify. It lasts for three to six weeks.

Retrobulvarny:

• A severe drop in vision, up to complete blindness;
• The presence of blind spots;
• Painful sensations (especially when moving with eyeballs);
• Reducing the fields of vision.

This type of disease is less common, but it is easier to diagnose by symptomatology.

In addition to these symptoms, there are other symptoms:

• Dizziness, headaches;
• Redness of the eyes and mucous eyes;
• Nausea.

The intensification of these symptoms is often observed after water procedures (shower, baths, saunas).

Possible complications

In severe cases, optic neuritis can lead to a complete loss of vision.However, with proper treatment it is possible to improve his condition and slow down the deterioration of his health.

Diagnostics

The plan of diagnostic measures, as a rule, includes an examination with an ophthalmologist, a survey and a study of the medical history.Direct examination includes:

• Primary examination;
• Determination of the response of pupils to stimuli;
• MRI;
• Investigation of the fundus.

MRI

Ophthalmologist can often prescribe examinations and other specialists to identify the main causes of the anomaly.

Treatment

Therapy of pathology is possible at any stage.But at the first stages of its development it is possible not only to stop the loss of vision, but also to restore it to its original quality.As a rule, the treatment of this disease is carried out only together with the elimination of the cause of its occurrence.

Medicines

Treatment with the use of drugs is necessary to eliminate inflammation and destroy the infection.Typically, for this use:

• Corticosteroids;
• Anti-inflammatory eye drops, ointments and tablets for oral administration;
• Medicines that improve blood supply;
• Antibiotics.

The drug treatment method is currently the main one.In addition to these drugs is important to use vitamin complexes. Special importance is given to antiseptics and the observance of personal hygiene rules.

Vitamin Complexes

It is also important to prescribe medications that improve the supply of nerve impulses. The need for this is determined by a neurologist.

Surgically

Surgical treatment of inflammation is effective in severe stages of the disease.In this case, the optic nerve sheath is opened to reduce pressure and swelling. Thus, the elimination of inflammatory processes occurs much faster and the progression of neuritis stops.

Often (especially in the first stages) it is effective to use methods of physiotherapy. So, laser and magnetic stimulation, and also electrotherapy is useful.

The process of performing an operation for the treatment of optic neuritis

Optical correction and the use of folk remedies in this disease are ineffective. With self-treatment, it is possible to strengthen the main symptoms and aggravate the situation.

Prevention

The main point among all preventive measures is timely treatment and elimination of the causes of inflammation of the optic nerve.In addition, it is important to observe the following rules:

• Compliance with personal hygiene, prevention of infections;
• Periodic visit to the ophthalmologist and other doctors;
• Improving the quality of nutrition, enriching it with healthy foods rich in vitamins and minerals;
• Avoidance of traumatic situations;
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Overexertion of the visual apparatus is also capable of producing negative consequences. Therefore, the load must be dosed and alternated with rest periods.

Video

conclusions

Neuritis of the optic nerve is a rather dangerous disease that can seriously reduce the visual acuity of a person or completely deprive him of his basic visual functions. At the same time, the process of progressing pathology is often very painful and unpleasant, and its symptoms increase with time. However, treatment of neuritis is possible at almost any stage of development, but it is important to remember that the most effective result can be achieved only at the initial stages.