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Optic neuritis (inflamed optic nerve)

Also called: Optic neuritis

Inflammation of the optic nerve causing painful vision loss in one eye, often linked to MS.

PainWith eye movement

Overview

Colors may look faded.

Optic neuritis is often the first sign of MS.

Vision usually improves over weeks to months.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Vision loss with eye pain
  • Blurry vision in one eye or pain moving the eye

Less common

  • Faded colors
  • Colors look faded

When to get medical care

Call 911Sudden vision loss, a curtain over vision, or a painful red eye with vision changes: go to the ER.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.

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

  • MS
  • Women 20 to 40: Most common

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Rest your eyes
  • Avoid heat if it worsens vision

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Women 20 to 40: Most 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.

Outlook

Most vision returns.

Most recover vision.

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's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?
  • Do I need an MRI for MS?

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 Optic neuritis (inflamed optic nerve)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.