Neuromyelitis optica (NMOSD or MOGAD)

Overview

NMOSD attacks the optic nerves and spinal cord and can cause severe relapses.

Preventive medicines lower relapse risk.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Sudden vision loss
• Weakness
• Blurry vision in one eye or pain moving the eye

Less common

• Hiccups or vomiting

Look up a symptom: Muscle weakness in arms or legs · Vomiting

When to get medical care

Causes

Immune.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women
• Women: Much more common
• Black and Asian people: Higher risk

Possible complications

• Vision loss or blindness: From repeated attacks
• Paralysis: From spinal cord attacks

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• MRI:
• Antibody test:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Go to the ER
• Take preventive medicines

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor and surgeon) or an optometrist.

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women and people of Asian or African descent: More common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Treatment greatly lowers relapses.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Neuromyelitis optica (NMOSD or MOGAD)