NEURO OPHTHALMOLOGY

Our specialists treat many different neuro-ophthalmologic conditions, such as optic neuritis, headaches, and double vision. Some of the disorders we commonly treat include

• Optic disc edema and Papilledema

• Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION)

• Giant cell arteritis

• Cranial nerve palsy of the 3rd, 4th and 6th nerves

• Ocular myasthenia gravis

• Thyroid eye disease (Graves' Disease)

• Optic atrophy

• Optic neuritis

• Optic neuropathy

• Nutritional and toxic disorders

• Traumatic brain injuries

• Tumours affecting the optic nerve

• Pituitary tumours

Injury to the brain or the optic nerves and specific diseases and conditions such as tumours, strokes, infections, and inflammations can cause problems in the nervous system, which can lead to visual problems.

• Sudden vision loss or temporary vision loss in one or both eyes

• Strong headaches

• Double vision

• Twitching muscle spasm of the eyelids or face

• Eye pain

• Unequal pupil dilation

• Nystagmus or jiggling of the eyes

• Drooping of eyelids

• Blurry vision

Diagnosing neurological problems is key to addressing the cause of the visual issue. Some of our diagnostic testing capabilities include:

• Eye moment and alignment evaluations

• Visual acuity

• Visual field testing

• Optical coherence tomography

• Colour vision testing

• Diabetes: A significant risk factor, particularly for ischemic optic neuropathy. 

• Hypertension: High blood pressure is another major risk factor. 

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A neurological disease that can directly affect the optic nerve. 

• Autoimmune disorders: Conditions that can cause inflammation that affects the optic nerve or other parts of the visual pathway. 

• Thyroid-related conditions: Can contribute to neuro-ophthalmic issues. 

• Giant cell arteritis: An inflammatory condition that can lead to sudden vision loss. 

• Head trauma: Injuries to the head can damage the optic nerves or other visual pathways. 

• Brain tumors: Can cause vision problems through compression of the optic nerves or other visual structures. 

• Ischemia: A lack of blood flow to the optic nerve, often associated with diabetes, hypertension, or atherosclerosis. 

• Inflammation: Can be caused by infections, autoimmune conditions, or vaccinations. 

• Compression: Caused by tumors, blood vessels, or enlarged structures in the orbit. 

• Raised intracranial pressure: Pressure inside the skull can affect the optic nerves. 

• Certain medications: Some drugs can have neuro-ophthalmic side effects, including antitubercular drugs.

• Methanol poisoning: A severe risk factor for vision loss.

• Heavy metals: Exposure to heavy metals can be a risk factor. 

• Genetics: A family history of the condition can increase risk. 

• Lifestyle factors: Smoking has been linked to increased risk for various eye diseases.

Depending on the condition, treatment will vary :

• Surgery may be needed to relieve pressure in the brain if it is compressing the optic nerve. 

• Corrective lenses.

• Medications.