Neuro-ophthalmology Disorders and How to Treat Them

Neurological disorders can affect the eyes and vision, impacting a patient’s daily life. The eyes receive visual images, but the brain interprets the information received. This allows an individual to “see” the images.

Neuro-ophthalmology is the study and treatment of nervous system diseases affecting the visual system. It is vital to understand these disorders and their treatment.

Treating Neuro-ophthalmology Disorders

Specialists analyze the function of cranial nerves, ocular motility, and other structures that deal with focus and eye movement. These specialists help diagnose and treat:
 

• Eyelid twitching
   

• Adult strabismus
   

• Optic nerve tumors
   

• Gaze palsy
   

• Cranial nerves palsy
   

• Ocular myasthenia palsy
   

• Myopathy
   

• Ocular myasthenia gravis
   

• Pupillary abnormalities
   

• Optic neuropathies
   

• Hereditary retinal dystrophies
   

Symptoms of the Disorders

Symptoms of the disorders depend on the condition the patient is suffering from. The most common symptoms include:
 

• Diplopia (double vision)
   

• Functional visual loss
   

• Headaches
   

• Ptosis or drooping eyelids
   

• Visual field loss
   

• Scalp tenderness
   

• Eye pain
   

• Exophthalmos
   

• Bulging eyes
   

• Fever
   

• Jaw claudication
   

• Joint aches
   

• Loss of appetite
   

• Temporal artery tenderness

Diagnosing The Disorders

Neuro-ophthalmologists use several techniques and tools to diagnose the disorders. Optical coherence tomography and a visual field test can help examine the cornea and retina. The specialists may also use an optical electrophysiology test.

Doctors conduct the tests at an outpatient clinic. Patients who need complex treatment or have a complex diagnosis may need hospitalization.

Health Conditions and the Visual System

There are health conditions that can affect an individual’s visual system. These professionals often treat individuals that are suffering from various conditions. These include diabetes, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, cardiovascular disease, and infectious diseases.

Comprehensive Eye Examination

Ophthalmologists at Quality Eye Care begin by obtaining a history of your issue and relevant medical conditions. Tests may include an MRI or CT scan. Depending on your situation, the specialist may use eye drops to dilate the pupils.

They may also test eye movements, visual and vision fields, eye pressure and size, and color vision. Other tests are retina and optic nerve testing related to cranial nerves.

Choosing Treatment

The specialist will recommend treatment based on your condition. Patients who have suffered a stroke or brain tumor may recover after treatment of the underlying condition. Medication may help treat visual field issues due to inflammation.

Also, medical therapies and Botox injections can reduce muscle spasms. In some cases, surgery is ideal for treating permanent problems or relieving pressure on the brain.

Candidates for this type of treatment are people who have lost visual acuity. They also include individuals who have difficulty moving their eyes. Patients with tumors that compress visual pathways or in the head should visit a neuro-ophthalmologist. Developing uneven pupils is a reason to consult a specialist.

Injuries, drugs, infections, or metabolic conditions can damage the optic nerve and cause vision loss. Treating the condition can help restore vision or prevent further loss.

For more on neuro-ophthalmology disorders, visit Quality Eye Care. Our offices are in Jacksonville and Gainesville, Florida. You can call (904) 601-1300 today to schedule an appointment.