What is ischemic optic neuropathy?
Ischemic optic neuropathy is condition in which blood flow to the optic nerve is inadequate. The decreased blood flow results in a sudden and sometimes progressive loss of vision. The optic nerve is the nerve that connects the eye to the brain. It sends the “picture” taken by the eye to the brain.
What causes ischemic optic neuropathy?
The cause of ION is not very well understood, but it occurs in people over the age of 40 and may be related to hardening of the arteries (arteriolar sclerosis) caused by high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, tobacco, or obesity. Some people are predisposed to ION because of the way the eye developed from birth with a small opening in the back of the eye for the optic nerve. This “crowded” optic nerve may be predisposed to blood vessel blockage. Sometimes, ION is caused by an inflammation of the blood vessels (temporal arteritis or giant cell arteritis). Sleep apnea may play a role in some patients and SSRI anti-depressants may be a risk factor.
How is ischemic optic neuropathy managed?
When the doctor diagnoses ION, laboratory tests may be ordered to determine if any underlying problem is present outside the eye. If there are signs of inflammation, a biopsy of a blood vessel over the temple may be performed and treatment with steroid pills instituted if the tests are positive. Most cases of ION are not associated with inflammation. Unfortunately, no treatment has been proven to be effective. The visual loss is usually permanent. Because the fellow eye may be affected at a later date, some doctors recommend the use of a half aspirin a day for prevention.
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