Diagnosis of Optic Neuropathy

Optic neuropathy is a condition that occurs when the optic nerve becomes damaged. Damage to the optic nerve can result in partial or complete vision loss.

Features

• Optic neuropathy typically affects only one eye, but it can eventually progress to both eyes.

Symptoms

• Symptoms may include blurry or dimmed vision and loss of vision field. Eye swelling at the back of the eye may be detected by a doctor.

Risk Factors

• Individuals with certain diseases and conditions are at a higher risk of developing optic neuropathy. Such diseases and conditions include diabetes, anemia, sickle cell anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, vasculitis and arteriosclerosis.

Proper Diagnosis

• An opthamologist can diagnosis optic neuropathy by completing a physical exam of the eyes using a ophthalmoscope. Diagnosis may be confirmed using blood tests and biopsies of temperal artery tissues.

Treatment

• Treatment typically focuses on preventing the condition from worsening or affecting both eyes. Treatment may involve regulating blood pressure and taking a daily aspirin.