"The best piece of advice that I've received to manage my MS is to take care of myself."
Vision
Vision problems are not uncommon in people with MS. But they rarely result in total blindness.
Optic neuritis
is inflammation of the optic nerve. This is the nerve that transmits light and visual images from the eye to the brain. Approximately half of people with MS will have at least one episode of optic neuritis. Frequently, it is the first symptom of MS. Optic neuritis may result in blurring or graying of vision, or rarely, blindness in one eye. A dark spot may also occur in the center of the visual field.
Nystagmus
or uncontrolled horizontal or vertical eye movements, is another common symptom. Nystagmus may be mild, only occurring when the person looks to the side. Sometimes it may be severe enough to impair vision.
Double vision (diplopia)
occurs when the pair of muscles that control a particular eye movement are weak. The muscles then become uncoordinated. When the images are not properly fused, the patient sees a double image. Double vision may increase with fatigue or overuse of the eyes.
Dealing with vision problems
The good news is that these vision problems are usually temporary. Patients generally recover. Steroid treatments may be useful for optic neuritis and nystagmus. Resting the eyes periodically throughout the day and/or wearing an eye patch can be helpful for double vision. Speak with your health care provider if you experience vision problems.
