Foods to avoid with optic neuritis

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on August 31, 2024
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Optic neuritis usually causes a decline in the patient's vision, with noticeable decrease in either unilateral or bilateral vision. Commonly seen in clinical practice are simple optic neuritis, as well as optic neuritis caused by multiple sclerosis, and optic nerve pathology caused by neuromyelitis optica. Essentially, optic neuritis is an autoimmune disease, primarily caused by the demyelination of the optic nerve. In terms of diet, there are certain foods to avoid. First, spicy and stimulating foods. These types of food can disrupt the body's immune function, causing vascular nerve congestion, which is detrimental to the recovery of optic neuritis. Second, overly greasy foods. Foods that are too greasy can also affect the blood supply to the nerves, prolonging the recovery time of optic neuritis.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Optic neuritis treated with steroids

Optic neuritis is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, primarily including optic neuritis caused by multiple sclerosis, as well as neuromyelitis optica and retrobulbar neuritis, among others. These diseases are caused by abnormal immune responses of the body and are closely related to immune dysfunction. Therefore, optic neuritis is mainly treated with corticosteroids. Corticosteroids can inhibit the body's immune response to achieve the purpose of alleviating the disease. However, the use of steroids should also pay attention to some related risks. For instance, there might be occurrences of osteoporosis and even osteonecrosis of the femoral head, potential disturbances in electrolyte, fat, and sugar metabolism in the body, the possibility of developing centripetal obesity, and the potential for gastric ulcers. Close monitoring is essential, and other immunosuppressants may be added if necessary. (Use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Can optic neuritis recover by itself?

Optic neuritis is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, caused by an immune-inflammatory response of the body. Most patients with optic neuritis have severe immune dysfunction, making full recovery on their own very difficult. Although a very small number are fortunate enough to potentially self-heal without specific treatment, such cases are rare. Treatment for optic neuritis is essential because if left untreated, it could likely lead to permanent vision reduction. Additionally, the disease may also affect the brain and spinal cord, leading to clinical manifestations such as paralysis of limbs. Therefore, it is advisable to actively treat this condition. The primary treatment involves administration of corticosteroids and possibly long-term oral intake of immunomodulators to prevent recurrence. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor based on specific conditions.)

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Can optic neuritis be treated without hospitalization?

Patients with optic neuritis generally experience severe symptoms, as failing to receive appropriate treatment can lead to a significant and potentially irreversible decline in vision, resulting in disability. It is recommended that patients with optic neuritis be hospitalized for treatment. Hospitalization is necessary to carry out various supportive tests, including lumbar puncture lab tests and comprehensive MRI scans. Treatment of optic neuritis also involves administering high doses of corticosteroids based on the patient's condition. It is difficult for patients to manage such high doses of corticosteroids at home. Moreover, doctors need to closely monitor for any adverse reactions caused by these steroids. Therefore, hospitalization is advised for the treatment of optic neuritis, as the risks and prognosis are considerably worse without it.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Early symptoms of optic neuritis

Optic neuritis primarily leads to a decline in vision in both eyes, though sometimes only one eye is affected. Diseases causing optic neuritis mainly include conditions like neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis, which are central nervous system demyelinating diseases. These are autoimmune response diseases caused by immune function disorder of the body itself. The initial symptoms of optic neuritis might include a decrease in immunity, making patients more susceptible to colds, and symptoms such as general fatigue, headaches, a runny nose, and a sore throat might appear. Some patients might also experience gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Additionally, some patients with optic neuritis might initially experience the sensation of foreign bodies moving in front of their eyes, along with other irritating visual symptoms. Treatment for optic neuritis must be prompt, as delayed treatment can lead to severe deterioration of vision, significantly impairing the patient's eyesight.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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How is optic neuritis diagnosed?

Optic neuritis is classified as an ophthalmological or neurological disorder, caused by demyelination of the central nervous system. Diagnosis of this condition is crucial, and the following tests are recommended: Firstly, visual evoked potentials should be performed. This test can clearly show the corresponding lesions in the optic nerve. Secondly, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the optic nerve is needed. MRI can reveal changes in the optic nerve, such as thickening and edema. Thirdly, some blood tests related to bleeding should be conducted. Specifically, testing for aquaporin-4 antibodies to determine if it is neuromyelitis optica. Additionally, a lumbar puncture is also necessary. This primarily aims to check for demyelination markers, such as oligoclonal bands. Once optic neuritis is diagnosed, timely treatment is required, mainly using corticosteroids or intravenous immunoglobulin.