What causes Optic Neuritis?
Optic neuritis usually occurs in adults younger than 45 and affects more women than men. The condition is common in people who have multiple sclerosis (MS), which occurs when the body’s own immune system attacks and destroys protective nerve coverings. Besides affecting eyesight, related nerve damage in MS can lead to loss of mobility and sensory functions, along with other debilitating conditions. Other causes of optic neuritis and neuropathy include: • Infections such as toxoplasmosis • Ocular herpes • Other viral infections • Sinusitis • Neurological disorders • Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, an inherited form of vision loss that affects mostly males in their 20s or 30s • Nutritional deficiency • Toxins, including alcohol and tobacco During an eye exam, your eye doctor will look for signs of optic neuritis by conducting tests to evaluate whether you have reduced vision. Your eye pressure will be measured, and your pupils will be dilated to provide a better view of the eye’s inte
