Neuro Ophthalmology is a specialty that concentrates on the neurological problems related to the eye. Like we all know, the human eye captures the visuals it sees and transmits to the brain to be resolved as images. It is the optic nerve that transmits these visual stimuli and a dysfunction of this entity might cause visual impairment and could even lead to irreparable damage.
Symptoms of Neuro Opthalmology:
- Reduced visual activity all of a sudden
- Double vision and headaches
- A less reactive pupil (pupil is the central part of eyeball that allows light to pass through)
- Impairment of colour vision (especially inability to identify red & green colours)
- Difficulty in seeing light (Photophobia)
- Visual Field Defects (visibility coverage)
Your eye specialist will ideally be able to pick up an optic nerve issue during an eye examination. A brain CT scan or an MRI is then typically done to assess whether there is associated damage in the brain as well. While some conditions can be treated with oral medications and injectables, others might require a surgery. Some of the common treatment options would be:
Optic Neuritis: Antibiotics and corticosteroids are used to flush out the infection or suppress the immune disorders from causing further damage.
Papilloedema: Medications are used to reduce the pressure inside the skull. Might require a brain surgery if the increased pressure is due to a tumorous growth.
Nutritional Optic Neuropathy: Lifestyle changes are recommended and vitamin injectables are prescribed.
Diabetic Retinopathy: Since the underlying cause is diabetes, it is essential to treat the diabetes before it further damages the nerve and other blood vessels.
If not detected on time, there’s a good chance for complete loss of vision.
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