Here for you 24/7
Call MS LifeLines toll-free at
1-877-447-3243 anytime, day or night.
A live representative is always available to take your call.
MS Fact
MS is more common in Caucasians and people of Northern European descent, but people from all backgrounds can be diagnosed with MS.
MS symptoms:
vision problems
If you've ever had double or blurred vision, eye pain or any visual limitations, you're not alone. Up to 80% of people living with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) have experienced vision difficulties. In fact, a vision problem is often one of the first symptoms of relapsing MS. Fortunately, vision problems are usually temporary.
How can MS affect my eyes?
MS is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the optic nerve— the nerve that transmits light and visual images to the brain.
Three visual disorders associated with MS are:
- Optic neuritis— An inflammation of the optic nerve that can cause sudden loss of vision, usually in one eye; blurred vision and eye pain. It is the most common MS-related vision problem. 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— Uncontrolled horizontal or vertical eye movements is another common symptom that impacts vision. Nystagmus may be mild, only occurring when the person looks to the side. Sometimes it may be severe enough to impair 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 person sees a double image. Double vision may increase with fatigue or overuse of the eyes.
A vision problem is often one of the first symptoms of relapsing MS. Fortunately, vision problems are usually temporary.
Another cause of vision impairment could be a rise in body temperature, whether from strenuous exercise, a hot bath or the weather. Heat-related vision difficulties usually diminish after you cool off.
Dealing with vision problems caused by MS
Fortunately, many times vision problems are often temporary and heal on their own. Steroids are sometimes prescribed for optic neuritis and nystagmus. Resting your eyes periodically throughout the day and/or wearing an eye patch can help reduce double vision.
Check out the Talk MS episode, "Staying Focused: MS and the Eye," to learn tips on how to manage your vision-related symptoms.
If you have any questions or concerns about your vision, contact your health care professional.
Have questions or concerns?
Call MS LifeLines at 1-877-447-3243 anytime, day or night. A live representative will always answer your call.
mslifelines.com is brought to you by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.
MS LifeLines is an educational support service for people living with MS and their families. MS LifeLines and MS LifeLines Ambassadors are sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc. Speakers and MS LifeLines Ambassadors who participate in Talk MS or in live events are sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc. MS LifeLines is a registered trademark of EMD Serono, Inc. or its affiliates.
Copyright © 2010 EMD Serono, Inc. All rights reserved.
EMD Serono, Inc., One Technology Place, Rockland, MA 02370
