How is optic neuritis diagnosed?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on September 16, 2024
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Optic neuritis is classified as an ophthalmological or neurological disorder, caused by demyelination of the central nervous system. Diagnosis of this condition is crucial, and the following tests are recommended: Firstly, visual evoked potentials should be performed. This test can clearly show the corresponding lesions in the optic nerve. Secondly, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the optic nerve is needed. MRI can reveal changes in the optic nerve, such as thickening and edema. Thirdly, some blood tests related to bleeding should be conducted. Specifically, testing for aquaporin-4 antibodies to determine if it is neuromyelitis optica. Additionally, a lumbar puncture is also necessary. This primarily aims to check for demyelination markers, such as oligoclonal bands. Once optic neuritis is diagnosed, timely treatment is required, mainly using corticosteroids or intravenous immunoglobulin.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Early symptoms of optic neuritis

Optic neuritis primarily leads to a decline in vision in both eyes, though sometimes only one eye is affected. Diseases causing optic neuritis mainly include conditions like neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis, which are central nervous system demyelinating diseases. These are autoimmune response diseases caused by immune function disorder of the body itself. The initial symptoms of optic neuritis might include a decrease in immunity, making patients more susceptible to colds, and symptoms such as general fatigue, headaches, a runny nose, and a sore throat might appear. Some patients might also experience gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Additionally, some patients with optic neuritis might initially experience the sensation of foreign bodies moving in front of their eyes, along with other irritating visual symptoms. Treatment for optic neuritis must be prompt, as delayed treatment can lead to severe deterioration of vision, significantly impairing the patient's eyesight.

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Written by Zhang Hui
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How many days does optic neuritis require hospitalization?

Patients with optic neuritis generally experience a decrease in vision, which may occur in one eye or in both if both optic nerves are involved. This condition is often caused by non-specific inflammatory responses that lead to the demyelination of the optic nerve, such as in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica, leading to changes in optic neuritis. This condition is quite severe and requires hospitalization. If not treated promptly, it can cause permanent vision loss, severely affecting the patient's future life. Typically, hospitalization lasts about 10-14 days. During this period, comprehensive examinations including MRI and lumbar puncture are needed, along with high-dose corticosteroid treatment lasting 10-14 days. After discharge, the patient must continue taking oral medications and undergo rehabilitation training.

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Neurology
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Can optic neuritis recover by itself?

Optic neuritis is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, caused by an immune-inflammatory response of the body. Most patients with optic neuritis have severe immune dysfunction, making full recovery on their own very difficult. Although a very small number are fortunate enough to potentially self-heal without specific treatment, such cases are rare. Treatment for optic neuritis is essential because if left untreated, it could likely lead to permanent vision reduction. Additionally, the disease may also affect the brain and spinal cord, leading to clinical manifestations such as paralysis of limbs. Therefore, it is advisable to actively treat this condition. The primary treatment involves administration of corticosteroids and possibly long-term oral intake of immunomodulators to prevent recurrence. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor based on specific conditions.)

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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.

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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.