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Does optic neuritis indicate a risk of MS?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am really concerned about my 19-year-old son. Last week, he experienced a sudden blurry vision in one eye, like looking through fog. The ophthalmologist diagnosed him with optic neuritis and mentioned multiple sclerosis (MS) as a possible cause. They have recommended an MRI and spinal tap to investigate further. His eye hurts when he moves it, and the steroid drops do not seem to be helping much. He is scheduled to start college next month, and I am worried about how this might affect him.

  1. Could this be a temporary condition?

  2. What are the chances this could actually be MS?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Reema Wankar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is an accomplished medical professional with an MBBS (2010) and MD in Community Medicine (2016) from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. With over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, she delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Wankar has contributed to national and international publications, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning, research, and advancing innovative approaches in healthcare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve, causing pain when moving the eyes. In multiple sclerosis (MS), optic neuritis is often the first symptom, but not everyone with optic neuritis will develop multiple sclerosis.

Causes:

  1. Multiple sclerosis (MS).

  2. Lupus.

  3. Sarcoidosis.

  4. Measles.

  5. Mumps.

  6. Some medications like Isoniazid, and Ethambutol.

Investigations: If multiple sclerosis (MS) is suspected, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) will help confirm whether optic neuritis is caused by multiple sclerosis or another condition.

Treatment plan: About 50 percent of multiple sclerosis patients experience optic neuritis, which can be self-limiting. Long-term use of steroid eye drops can help reduce symptoms.

Follow-up: Inquire about family history of multiple sclerosis.

I hope this helps answer your query.

Please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At January 28, 2025
Reviewed At May 29, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is an accomplished medical professional with an MBBS (2010) and MD in Community Medicine (2016) from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. With over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, she delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Wankar has contributed to national and international publications, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning, research, and advancing innovative approaches in healthcare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is an accomplished medical professional with an MBBS (2010) and MD in Community Medicine (2016) from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. With over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, she delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Wankar has contributed to national and international publications, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning, research, and advancing innovative approaches in healthcare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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