How is optic neuritis treated?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on September 05, 2024
00:00
00:00

Optic neuritis is generally caused by demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, and retrobulbar neuritis, all of which can lead to the onset. The main symptoms include a decline in vision, which can affect one eye or both eyes. The treatment of optic neuritis primarily includes: First, the use of corticosteroids, which can alleviate the inflammatory response in the body and help in the recovery of optic nerve functions, is widely applied. Corticosteroids can be used systemically, and if necessary, administered retrobulbarly. Second, the intake of other immunosuppressants and immunoregulatory treatments, mainly during the remission phase, is to prevent relapse. Third, treatment can also involve the use of intravenous immunoglobulin, although it is relatively expensive. Additionally, it is necessary to take some B vitamins for related treatment.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
58sec home-news-image

Why does optic neuritis keep recurring?

The recurrence rate of optic neuritis is quite high because this disease is a type of demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, caused by an immune dysfunction in the body. This immune dysfunction produces abnormal antibodies which attack the optic nerve, as well as the brain and spinal cord, leading to a variety of clinical manifestations. Therefore, as long as the patient's immune function is disordered and not corrected, recurrence is very likely to occur. To prevent the recurrence of optic neuritis, the main aspects include: First, regular physical exercise should be done to enhance physical fitness. Second, it is crucial to follow the doctor's advice and take corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants for a long time, which can help suppress the immune dysfunction. Third, dietary habits should also be carefully managed, with an increased intake of fresh vegetables and fruits and avoiding spicy and stimulating foods.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Hong Mei
Neurology
54sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
57sec home-news-image

What should one eat for optic neuritis?

Optic neuritis is generally caused by the demyelination of the optic nerve, presenting as a clinical syndrome. Patients mainly exhibit significant vision loss, which can affect one or both eyes. It is crucial for those suffering from optic neuritis to receive timely treatment, including the consumption of group B vitamins and corticosteroid medications. Dietary considerations are also important: first, patients should consume foods rich in B vitamins, which include lean meats, fish, soybeans, buckwheat, corn, millet, and sorghum, all of which contain abundant B vitamins. Second, a higher intake of fresh vegetables and fruits is advised, as these contain plenty of folic acid and vitamins, which can aid in the recovery from optic neuritis. Third, the consumption of foods rich in vitamin B12, essential for the formation of myelin in the optic nerve, is also important.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
54sec home-news-image

Optic neuritis hormonal side effects

Optic neuritis is a demyelinating disease caused by an inflammatory response, a disorder resulting from an immune dysfunction of the body. Thus, corticosteroids play a critical role in its treatment, and are widely used clinically. However, corticosteroids also have some side effects, such as causing osteoporosis, decalcification, and even necrosis of the femoral head, leading to significant obesity in patients due to redistribution of some fats, resulting in conditions like moon face and buffalo hump, and other adverse reactions including acne. Additionally, corticosteroids can have stimulating effects, potentially causing symptoms like insomnia and tachycardia; they also have gastrointestinal side effects, leading to acute ulcers and gastric mucosal lesions.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
1min 6sec home-news-image

What tests are done for optic neuritis?

Optic neuritis is generally caused by demyelinating diseases, including common conditions such as neuromyelitis optica, multiple sclerosis, and retrobulbar neuritis. These diseases can severely impact the patient's vision and create significant burdens. Typically, examinations of the optic nerve are required, covering several aspects. First, an examination of the fundus is necessary, generally using an ophthalmoscope or other devices to observe the optic disc and surrounding blood vessels, which is very important. Second, a visual evoked potential test can be conducted. This test helps assess whether there is damage to the optic nerve and the severity of the damage. Third, it is necessary to complete an MRI of the optic nerve. Evaluations might include a lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid, and complete tests related to water channels, protein antibodies, oligoclonal bands, etc., to help confirm the diagnosis.