How to Cure Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis can cause sudden vision loss, pain around your eye, and other concerning symptoms, but, fortunately, the effects are usually temporary. While it can result from optic nerve inflammation or an infection, optic neuritis is most commonly associated with multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune disorders. Symptoms usually improve on their own in 2-3 days, and you might not require treatment. However, it's best to follow-up with a doctor to ensure you're not at-risk for multiple sclerosis. Your doctor may speed up your recovery with corticosteroids and other therapies. Experiencing changes in your vision can be frightening, but your doctor can help you manage and cope with your condition.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Getting an Accurate Diagnosis

1
See your doctor promptly if you notice changes in your vision. Call your doctor as soon as possible if you experience symptoms such as vision loss, dim vision, eye pain, or loss of color vision. Symptoms of optic neuritis usually develop suddenly, progressively worsen for about 2 weeks, then gradually improve. In most cases, symptoms occur in 1 eye, but both eyes may be affected.^{[1]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
- Your primary doctor will most likely refer you to an ophthalmologist, or an eye specialist. To avoid a surprise medical bill, you might need to check with your insurer to make sure a specialist is in your network.
2
Tell the doctor about your symptoms and any medications you take. Describe your symptoms and when your first noticed them. Let your doctor know if you've recently been diagnosed with an infection, or if you have a history of autoimmune conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or lupus. Additionally, tell the doctor about any medications you take regularly.^{[2]XTrustworthy SourceJohns Hopkins MedicineOfficial resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins HospitalGo to source}
- Optic neuritis can be easily confused with other vision disorders, but providing as much information about your symptoms as possible can help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis.
- While the condition is commonly associated with multiple sclerosis, it can be also caused by eye infections, herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), tumors, some antibiotics, and some antimalarial medications.
3
Undergo routine eye tests. The doctor will check your vision, test your ability to see colors, and measure your peripheral, or side, vision. They'll use a light to examine the structures in the back of your eyes, and they'll check how your pupils respond to light.^{[3]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Academy of OpthamologistsProfessional medical organization focused on advocating for public health and supporting sight-related researchGo to source}
- Try not to be nervous about having your eyes examined. These tests are routine and noninvasive, and you won't feel any pain.
4
Have a full neurological exam. Your doctor will perform a few in-office tests to make sure that your nerves are functioning well. They'll use special lights and reflex hammers to check your sensory skills, motor skills, coordination, and balance. These tests are non-invasive and pain-free.^{[4]XTrustworthy SourceJohns Hopkins MedicineOfficial resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins HospitalGo to source}
- This allows the doctor to eliminate possible conditions that could be causing your optic neuritis.
5
Get an MRI to check for nerve damage. If your doctor suspects MS could be the cause of your optic neuritis, they'll order an MRI, which will help them find areas of damage on your optic nerve and brain. If they find signs of nerve damage, they'll prescribe medication that can reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis.^{[5]XTrustworthy SourcePubMed CentralJournal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of HealthGo to source}
- An MRI doesn't cause any pain or discomfort. If enclosed spaces make you nervous, you might be given medication to help you relax.
- You'll likely be injected with a special dye that will help doctors see your eyes, optic nerve, and brain more clearly. For most people, the dye is perfectly safe, but it can be harmful for people with kidney problems who are on dialysis.^{[6]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
6
Ask your doctor if they recommend blood tests. Your doctor might order blood tests to eliminate possible causes or if they suspect you might have an infection. Symptoms of optic neuritis can be caused by infections such as Lyme disease, meningitis, tuberculosis, syphilis, measles, and mumps. If they identify an underlying infection, they'll prescribe an antibiotic or antiviral medication to treat it.^{[7]XResearch source}
- Additionally, if your MRI showed signs of nerve damage, you'll need to take a corticosteroid, which weakens the immune system. Your doctor needs to rule out an infection before you begin corticosteroid treatment.^{[8]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
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Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Treating Optic Neuritis with Corticosteroids

1
Ask your doctor if corticosteroids are necessary in your case. Optic neuritis usually goes away on its own within 4 to 12 weeks, so you might not need any medication. In most cases, your doctor will only prescribe them if you experience significant vision loss. Additionally, if your MRI showed signs of nerve damage, you're at a higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis. An injected corticosteroid, such as methylprednisolone, can reduce this risk.^{[9]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Academy of OpthamologistsProfessional medical organization focused on advocating for public health and supporting sight-related researchGo to source}
- A corticosteroid can hasten recovery, so your doctor will recommend treatment if symptoms affect both of your eyes or interfere with your daily activities.
- Common side effects include headache, dizziness, acne, weight gain, increased sweating, trouble falling asleep, and changes in mood.
- Your doctor will weigh the benefits of the treatment versus the risks of it.
2
Inject an IV corticosteroid as directed by your doctor. The recommended treatment regimen for optic neuritis involves high-dose injections of methylprednisolone 1 to 3 times per day for 3 days. You'll most likely need to visit your doctor's office or another medical facility to receive the injections.^{[10]XResearch source}
- Before receiving corticosteroid injections, tell your doctor about any medications you take, including blood thinners, antibiotics, birth control, and medication for diabetes. Corticosteroids can affect how these medications work or cause harmful side effects.
3
Take an oral steroid after IV treatment if your doctor advises. Your doctor might instruct you to take a lower-dose oral corticosteroid for up to 11 days after your initial treatment. Tapering the dosage for 1-2 weeks can help prevent symptoms of steroid withdrawal, such as depression, weight gain, changes in sleep habits, and stomach upset.^{[11]XTrustworthy SourcePubMed CentralJournal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of HealthGo to source}
- Use any medication as directed. Take an oral corticosteroid at the same time every day. Taking it with food or milk can help prevent stomach upset.
- Taking an oral steroid alone may increase your risk of experiencing recurring optic neuritis.
4
Tell your doctor if you experience severe or persistent side effects. Side effects of injected and oral corticosteroids may include headache, dizziness, acne, weight gain, increased sweating, trouble falling asleep, and changes in mood. Call your doctor if these symptoms are severe or interfere with your daily activities.^{[12]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
- You may experience some side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you experience side effects that interfere with your day, such as extreme headaches, dizziness, weight gain, insomnia, increased swelling, changes in mood, fever, skin rash, difficulty breathing or swallowing, seizures, or swelling of the face, throat, lips, hands, or feet.
5
Practice healthy personal hygiene to avoid getting sick. Since corticosteroids weaken the immune system, you'll need to take precautions to avoid an infection. Wash your hands frequently, avoid raw or undercooked foods, and bathe regularly. Try to stay away from people who are sick, don't receive any vaccinations, and consult your doctor if someone in your household has recently had a vaccination.^{[13]XTrustworthy SourceCenters for Disease Control and PreventionMain public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human ServicesGo to source}
- Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of an infection, such as fever, cough, or chills, or if you have a wound that won't heal, becomes red or swollen, or discharges pus.
6
Attend a follow-up appointment 2 to 4 weeks after starting treatment. Your doctor will check to make sure your symptoms are responding to treatment. You should be able to see better and the pain should subside, but you might experience some degree of permanent vision loss.^{[14]XTrustworthy SourceJohns Hopkins MedicineOfficial resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins HospitalGo to source}
- With treatment, symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but serious cases may take 6 to 12 months. Corticosteroid therapy can reduce the risk of recurrence, but optic neuritis reoccurs in between 1/4 and 1/3 of people.
- If your MRI showed signs of nerve damage, your doctor will recommend additional medication and follow-up visits at least every 6 to 12 months.
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Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Reducing Your Risk for Multiple Sclerosis

1
Take interferon or glatiramer if your MRI showed abnormalities. Signs of nerve damage point to a greater risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Your doctor will recommend long-term interferon or glatiramer injections to reduce this risk and slow the progression of the disease.^{[15]XTrustworthy SourcePubMed CentralJournal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of HealthGo to source}
- These medications can cause undesirable side effects, such as flu-like symptoms, weakness, and weight gain. However, these symptoms usually improve over time.
- While there's no guaranteed way to prevent multiple sclerosis, interferon or glatiramer can lower the risk of the condition by up to 50%.
2
Inject your medication according to your doctor's instructions. Glatiramer and interferon are injected into the thighs, upper arms, buttocks, or stomach. Most likely, your medication will come in pre-filled, disposable syringes, but you might have to measure your dosage on your own. The first time you use the medication will be at the doctor's office, and your doctor will show you how to inject yourself.^{[16]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
- Typically, interferon injections are taken at the same time of day, 3 days a week, such as Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Your specific dose will vary, so follow your doctor's instructions.
- Glatiramer is usually taken at the same time of day every day, but your doctor will provide specific instructions.^{[17]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
- Continue taking your medicine for as long as your doctor prescribed. Don't stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor.
3
Choose a different injection site each time you use your medication. Keep a log of where you inject yourself, such as on your upper right arm or left thigh. To lower the risk of irritation, vary your injection sites, and do not inject into the same spot 2 times in a row.^{[18]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
- For example, inject into your right upper arm on Monday, your right thigh on Wednesday, your left upper arm on Friday, and your left thigh on the following Monday.
4
Tell your doctor if you experience severe or persistent side effects. Most people who take interferon experience flu-like symptoms, including headache, fever, chills, nausea, muscle pain, and fatigue, especially soon after an injection.^{[19]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source} Common side effects of glatiramer include headache, stomach upset, muscle pain, pain at the injection site, rapid heartbeat, flushing, and sweating.^{[20]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
- Side effects usually improve over time. If symptoms are severe or interfere with your daily activities, ask your doctor to recommend over-the-counter pain and fever medication.
5
See your doctor and eye specialist at least once a year. If you're at a higher risk for developing multiple sclerosis, you'll need to see your primary doctor at least once every 6 to 12 months. After receiving treatment for optic neuritis, you'll also need to see your eye doctor at least once a year.^{[21]XResearch source}
- Your doctors will check for signs of disease progression or recurrence.
- In addition to regular check-ups, you should see your doctor if you experience any new or unusual symptoms, such as changes in vision, coordination and balance problems, muscle spasms, numbness or tingling, dizziness, or hearing loss.
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Tips

Some patients find improvement of their symptoms through eating a better diet, detoxing, taking supplements, and making lifestyle modifications. This is called functional medicine.^{[22]XTrustworthy SourceCleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
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Corrective eyewear can't improve vision loss related to optic neuritis. If you have persistent vision problems, your eye doctor can recommend strategies for coping with poor vision.^{[23]XResearch source}
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