Acupuncture treatment for optic neuritis

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on September 04, 2024
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Optic neuritis is generally caused by demyelinating diseases, which are commonly seen in neurology such as multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. These conditions affect the function of the optic nerve, leading to a noticeable decline in the patient's vision. In addition to the use of high doses of steroids during the acute phase of treatment, ophthalmology can also administer corticosteroids via retrobulbar injection for corresponding treatment, along with some immunomodulatory therapies. In the field of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture treatment is advocated for vision impairment caused by optic neuritis. Studies suggest that acupuncture can help improve vision recovery and is effective in improving the active vision of the eyeball. This treatment can generally continue from two weeks to about two months. Many patients report that acupuncture treatment tends to have a relatively good prognosis. Hence, apart from pharmacological treatments, acupuncture can be utilized as an adjunct therapy for optic neuritis.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Foods to avoid with optic neuritis

Optic neuritis usually causes a decline in the patient's vision, with noticeable decrease in either unilateral or bilateral vision. Commonly seen in clinical practice are simple optic neuritis, as well as optic neuritis caused by multiple sclerosis, and optic nerve pathology caused by neuromyelitis optica. Essentially, optic neuritis is an autoimmune disease, primarily caused by the demyelination of the optic nerve. In terms of diet, there are certain foods to avoid. First, spicy and stimulating foods. These types of food can disrupt the body's immune function, causing vascular nerve congestion, which is detrimental to the recovery of optic neuritis. Second, overly greasy foods. Foods that are too greasy can also affect the blood supply to the nerves, prolonging the recovery time of optic neuritis.

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Written by Liu Hong Mei
Neurology
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How long should optic neuritis hormone be used?

Optic neuritis hormone treatment generally lasts about two to three weeks. Prolonged use of hormones may lead to dependency. If symptoms gradually improve, the dosage of hormonal medications can be slowly reduced and eventually stopped. Long-term use may lead to side effects such as obesity, acne, and necrosis of the femoral head. Optic neuritis primarily involves demyelination of the optic nerve, causing changes in the optic nerve. It is important to exercise moderately, strengthen physical health, and enhance immunity in daily life. Eat fresh vegetables and fruits, and avoid spicy, stimulating, and hard-to-digest foods. Engage in outdoor aerobic activities, such as walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Acupuncture treatment for optic neuritis

Optic neuritis is generally caused by demyelinating diseases, which are commonly seen in neurology such as multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. These conditions affect the function of the optic nerve, leading to a noticeable decline in the patient's vision. In addition to the use of high doses of steroids during the acute phase of treatment, ophthalmology can also administer corticosteroids via retrobulbar injection for corresponding treatment, along with some immunomodulatory therapies. In the field of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture treatment is advocated for vision impairment caused by optic neuritis. Studies suggest that acupuncture can help improve vision recovery and is effective in improving the active vision of the eyeball. This treatment can generally continue from two weeks to about two months. Many patients report that acupuncture treatment tends to have a relatively good prognosis. Hence, apart from pharmacological treatments, acupuncture can be utilized as an adjunct therapy for optic neuritis.

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home-news-image
Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
51sec home-news-image

Can optic neuritis be treated without hospitalization?

Patients with optic neuritis generally experience severe symptoms, as failing to receive appropriate treatment can lead to a significant and potentially irreversible decline in vision, resulting in disability. It is recommended that patients with optic neuritis be hospitalized for treatment. Hospitalization is necessary to carry out various supportive tests, including lumbar puncture lab tests and comprehensive MRI scans. Treatment of optic neuritis also involves administering high doses of corticosteroids based on the patient's condition. It is difficult for patients to manage such high doses of corticosteroids at home. Moreover, doctors need to closely monitor for any adverse reactions caused by these steroids. Therefore, hospitalization is advised for the treatment of optic neuritis, as the risks and prognosis are considerably worse without it.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What vitamins to take for optic neuritis

Optic neuritis is primarily caused by the demyelination of the optic nerve. It is a type of central nervous system demyelinating disease. Therefore, patients with optic neuritis can take some vitamins, mainly B vitamins, including vitamin B12, vitamin B6, vitamin B1, etc. These can nourish the nerves and promote the regeneration of the myelin sheath. In addition, patients with optic neuritis also need to use some corticosteroids. Corticosteroids mainly suppress the immune response and inhibit the body's antibodies from damaging the myelin sheath of the optic nerve, playing a very important role in foundational treatment. Additionally, some severe cases of optic neuritis may even require the use of immunoglobulin and other immunosuppressive agents are also used in patients with optic neuritis.