Optic Neuritis is a condition caused by the inflammation of the optic nerve, which is tasked with carrying the visual information from the eye to the brain. The condition causes temporary or, in rare cases, permanent damage or loss of vision.
Optic neuritis can occur as the symptom of optic nerve inflammation due to infection or a pre-existing nerve disease. As the inflammation subsides, the vision should return to normal. It is a condition primarily affecting women ages 18 to 45 and is often diagnosed in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Cause of Optic Neuritis
It is still unclear what causes optic neuritis, and the condition is also often idiopathic, appearing seemingly without a known reason. Research states that it shares a strong connection with MS and is often one of the first symptoms that MS patients notice.
Besides the MS, optic neuritis can occur as a result of Neuromyelitis Optica and Schindler’s disease, and the following:
Infections:
- Mumps
- Measles
- Viral encephalitis
- Tuberculosis
- Lyme disease
- Shingles
- Meningitis
- Sinusitis
Other causes:
- An immune reaction to vaccination
- Sarcoidosis
- Guillain-Barre syndrome
- Medication and drugs
Do Vaccines Cause Optic Neuritis?
There is no clear scientific evidence suggesting vaccines cause optic neuritis, but there are numerous cases where patients post-vaccination had an adverse reaction to the vaccine and developed optic neuritis. As a result, optic neuritis is on the list of eligible conditions of the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.
The occurrence of optic neuritis happens as an adverse immune reaction to the following vaccines:
Symptoms
The common symptoms that patients with optic neuritis experience are, but not limited to:
- Pain, which occurs because of inflammation. The pain increases with eye movement and can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days.
- Loss of vision occurs gradually over the course of hours or days. The loss of vision affects a single eye, and often it takes weeks or months until vision returns. In some cases, the loss is permanent.
- Loss of visual field is another symptom, resulting in a loss of peripheral or central vision.
- Impaired color perception. Colors often look less vivid and washed.
- The appearance of flashing or blinking lights associated with eye movement.
If there is an underlying condition or disease connected with the occurrence of optic neuritis, the individual may experience a combination of many symptoms we have not mentioned.
Treatment
Optic neuritis, in most cases, requires treatment. In rare cases, the condition may go away on its own over time. The most common treatment options are:
- Intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP corticosteroids)
- Interferon shots
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
FAQ
What is optic neuritis?
Optic neuritis is a condition caused by the inflammation of the optic nerve, manifesting through a loss of sight.
What causes optic neuritis?
There is no scientifically proven cause of optic neuritis. Conditions like MS, Schindler’s disease, viral encephalitis, and others do share a connection with optic neuritis symptoms.
What are treatment options for optic neuritis?
Optic neuritis treatment includes, but is not exclusive to, IVMP corticosteroids, interferon shots, and intravenous immunoglobulin.
If you or your loved ones notice symptoms closely associated with optic neuritis caused by vaccines, it is essential to see your doctor immediately.
Optic neuritis is on the list of conditions eligible for the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. At Sadaka Associates, we help people navigate this complex legal framework. Knowing your rights and the correct procedure on how to apply for compensation is something we can provide for you.
Book a consultation and let the professional team at Sadaka Associates be your guide and advisor.
OPTIC DAMAGE AFTER MMR VACCINE
$175,000.00 total settlement for pain and suffering from a future lawyer who developed optic damage to the left eye as a result of the MMR vaccine.
