Can optic neuritis patients run?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on September 17, 2024
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Patients with optic neuritis generally suffer from demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system. In addition to optic neuritis, it can also affect the spinal cord, causing inflammation of the spinal cord. The nature of this disease is caused by the disorder of the body’s immune function. During the acute phase of the disease, the body is relatively weak, and the immune function is disordered; it is suitable for rest in bed. It is not recommended to engage in high-intensity exercise like running, as it is not beneficial for the recovery of the disease; this stage should focus on rest. If optic neuritis has been treated with corticosteroids and other treatments and the clinical symptoms have alleviated, and the patient's physical function has significantly recovered, it is then advisable to engage in running to exercise the body and enhance physical fitness. Participating in these physical activities can improve the patient's immune function and may prevent another attack.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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How long is the recovery period for optic neuritis?

Optic neuritis is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Besides affecting the optic nerve and causing a decrease in vision, it also impacts the brain's white matter and the spinal cord, leading to symptoms such as limb paralysis, numbness, and bladder and bowel dysfunction. Generally, the recovery period for optic neuritis is about six months, with the first three months being the most critical for recovery. If recovery has not occurred by six months, it is then considered a chronic phase, and further recovery becomes very challenging. It is crucial to diagnose and treat the condition promptly. Treatment primarily involves the use of corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, and potentially B-group vitamins to nourish the nerves. Overall, most patients with optic neuritis can recover substantially; however, the condition is prone to relapse, and the prognosis is poor if it reoccurs.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What tests need to be done for optic neuritis?

Optic neuritis is usually caused by demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, and generally requires the following examinations to be completed. First, it is necessary to complete an MRI scan of the optic nerve to assess if there is any abnormal swelling or abnormal signals in the optic nerve. Second, these patients also need to undergo brain MRI and spinal cord MRI scans, as optic neuritis patients may experience demyelination of brain white matter and the spinal cord. Third, it is important to complete examinations of serum and cerebrospinal fluid for aquaporin-4 antibodies. If this antibody is positive, it is of significant reference value for the diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica. Additionally, visual evoked potentials and examinations like OCT of the fundus are also necessary.

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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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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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How is optic neuritis treated?

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.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Will optic neuritis definitely cause blindness?

Optic neuritis is relatively common in neurology. It is a central nervous system demyelinating disease where the optic nerve is affected, leading to a significant decline in vision. However, patients with optic neuritis do not necessarily go blind. With prompt examination and treatment, mainly using corticosteroids, many patients can significantly recover their vision. However, neuromyelitis optica, another disease, tends to recur frequently. If there are many recurrences, it may lead to blindness. It may also cause corresponding lesions in the spinal cord, leading to paralysis and sensory disorders of the limbs. Therefore, it is crucial for patients to receive proper treatment in neurology, including immunosuppressants, and to regularly exercise to enhance physical fitness.