Optical Neurisis

[mumteacher1988]

Last week, I was sent to the eye clinic because I had eye pain and lost vision in my left eye. I was diagnosed with optical neuritis. The same day I found out I was pregnant after TTC for a number of years. I have been told I will need to go for an MRI to assess the damage of the brain and spinal cord, with possibility of MS. I am worried sick. I have stupidly devoured the internet looking at this and haven't slept in over a week. Has anyone had ON before? Was this an isolated incident or did it lead to a diagnosis of MS? Any experiences would be appreciated.

So sorry to hear this. First of all, whilst it is usually associated with MS, it can sometimes occur on its own. It's generally known as CIS - clinically isolated syndrome. It may or may not recur/with or without other neurological symptoms. If it doesn't recur, then that's you done, if it does or you get other symptoms then it's described as MS. If something shows up on the scan then it's more likely to progress, if not, it could still but it's a smaller chance.

Secondly, if it is MS, don't panic. I've had MS for 15 years now, have 2 fab kids and have just got a promotion at work. Whilst nothing's guaranteed being female and young tends to predict a milder course and optic neuritis as a first symptom even more so. And they have some really excellent treatments these days that are keeping people really well. The important thing is to identify it and treat early so it's really good that you're getting an MRI.

Congratulations on your pregnancy. I do hope you can put this out of your mind for a while and enjoy it

Please try not to worry op. As pp said, it could be isolated but if it did turn out to be MS, it doesn't have to be the end of the world. Optic neuritis was one of my early symptoms, I was diagnosed with MS 21 years ago, worked full time throughout and there are no outward signs that I've got it. Congratulations on your pregnancy and best wishes

Thank you for your replies. It has reassured me massively so thank you so much. I feel better about it all and as my vision is returning albeit slowly I feel more positive and excited about the pregnancy, although still early days right now. Congratulations on your promotion MoMuntervary. May I ask how old each of you were when you were diagnosed with MS? And what were your first symptoms? Xx

Glad that your vision is improving

29 first symptoms - numbness and tingling in hands/feet. 30 when diagnosed.

I was 26. Optic neuritis was my first symptom, quickly followed by numbness but I went on to recover both vision and sensation after a few months. Ive never been prescribed any medication