Optic Nerve Issues: Eye Pressure, Vision Loss, and Next Steps

Q: Optic Nerve Issues: Eye Pressure, Vision Loss, and Next Steps

Hello： Essentially, your question contains too many uncertain assumptions. <br>I recommend that you first seek a well-established hospital capable of conducting a comprehensive examination to confirm the diagnosis before considering subsequent treatment options. <br>This would be

Optic nerve issues?

Hello, Doctor.
I previously had an eye pressure spike up to 26, but after using eye drops (not for lowering eye pressure), it has been maintained between 15 and 19.
Yesterday, I found a clinic that could perform a visual field test on-site (the doctor said it was a simplified version), but the results were poor.
I couldn't see the left half of my left eye, and there was a section in the upper right part of my right eye that I couldn't see.
However, after a dilated optic nerve examination, the doctor didn't say much.
My eye pressure yesterday was 15-16, and he just mentioned that it might not be glaucoma but still recommended further examination at a major hospital.
I had a retinal examination six months ago, which should have included the optic nerve, and my eye pressure at that time was normal.
The doctor said the results were acceptable.
I would like to ask:
1.
Could it be that the high work stress and prolonged screen time over the past six months, along with the elevated eye pressure, have damaged my optic nerve? If my condition is now stable, is it reasonable to just regularly monitor changes in my visual field?
2.
It's only been six months; I don't think my eye pressure could spike to 40, but why has the damage occurred so quickly?
3.
Do I need to resign to properly rest my eyes, or must I change my career path to protect my vision?
4.
I also consulted a neurologist and had an MRI.
If it turns out to be a brain tumor, can my visual field and optic nerve recover?
I would greatly appreciate any additional advice you could provide.
Thank you.

gues, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/05/30

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Essentially, your question contains too many uncertain assumptions.
I recommend that you first seek a well-established hospital capable of conducting a comprehensive examination to confirm the diagnosis before considering subsequent treatment options.
This would be a more prudent approach.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2013/05/30

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your eye health concerns, particularly related to optic nerve issues, eye pressure, and vision loss. I understand that this is a stressful situation for you, and I will do my best to provide you with comprehensive information and guidance.

1. Monitoring Eye Pressure and Vision: It’s good to hear that your eye pressure has stabilized between 15-19 mmHg after previously reaching 26 mmHg. Regular monitoring of your eye pressure and visual fields is essential, especially if you have experienced fluctuations in pressure. Elevated eye pressure can indeed affect the optic nerve over time, potentially leading to vision loss. If your doctor suspects that your vision loss is not due to glaucoma, it is still crucial to keep a close watch on any changes in your visual fields. Regular follow-ups with your eye care provider are advisable to track any changes.

2. Rapid Vision Loss: It is concerning that you have experienced significant vision loss in such a short period. While high eye pressure is a risk factor for glaucoma, other factors can contribute to optic nerve damage, including underlying health conditions, genetic predispositions, or even stress and fatigue. It’s important to discuss with your doctor the potential reasons for the rapid changes in your vision and to rule out other conditions that may affect the optic nerve.

3. Work Environment and Eye Health: Given that you have been under considerable work stress and spending long hours in front of a screen, it may be beneficial to evaluate your work environment. Consider implementing the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This can help reduce eye strain. If your job is contributing significantly to your stress and eye strain, it might be worth considering a temporary leave or even a change in your work environment to prioritize your eye health.

4. Neurological Concerns: You mentioned having an MRI to rule out brain tumors. If a tumor were present, the impact on your vision would depend on its size and location. In some cases, if a tumor is treated effectively, vision can improve, but this is highly individual. It’s essential to follow up with your neurologist regarding the MRI results and any further necessary evaluations.

5. Next Steps: Given your situation, I recommend the following steps:
- Continue regular eye exams and visual field tests as advised by your eye care provider.

- Discuss with your doctor the possibility of seeing a specialist in neuro-ophthalmology if there are concerns about the optic nerve or if you experience any new symptoms.

- Consider lifestyle changes that can reduce stress and eye strain, such as taking regular breaks from screens, ensuring proper lighting, and possibly adjusting your work hours if feasible.

- Stay informed about your condition and maintain open communication with your healthcare providers about any changes in your symptoms or concerns.

In summary, while it’s understandable to feel anxious about your eye health, taking proactive steps and maintaining regular check-ups can help manage your condition effectively. Remember that you are not alone in this, and there are resources and professionals available to support you. Please take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out for further assistance or clarification on your health concerns.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Eye Pressure, Brain Pressure, and Vision Loss: A Patient's Journey

Hello, doctor. Since 2021, I have been regularly monitored at a hospital in central Taiwan due to elevated intraocular pressure. During this period, my eye pressure was normal for a while. After returning to Taipei in March 2023, I continued to have my eye pressure monitored at T...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Mr. Huang, You mentioned that "high intracranial pressure" is often associated with significant and dangerous conditions. It is important to distinguish between acute and chronic increases in intracranial pressure. In cases of acute intracranial hypertension, pati...

Protecting Remaining Optic Nerve: Strategies for Vision Preservation

Q: How can I preserve the remaining optic nerve? Hello, Dr. Gao. I know that some people have already asked questions regarding the optic nerve. Since treatment has been ineffective, I have been encouraged by your detailed and compassionate responses to patients. Holding onto a g...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Dear Mr. Gao, I regret to inform you that there is currently no method to completely halt the degeneration of the optic nerve. However, research indicates that the glaucoma medication, Aifumu (also known as Latanoprost), has protective effects on the optic nerve. If you wish to ...

Essential Nutrients for Managing Optic Nerve Atrophy

Due to optic nerve atrophy in the right eye, which raises concerns about potential blindness, what dietary changes should be made in terms of increased intake and avoidance? What specific aspects should be monitored?

Dr. Xie Huimin reply Nutrition
There are many causes of optic nerve atrophy, and treatment should primarily focus on the underlying disease. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, and you may consider supplementing with nutrients that support nerve conduction, such as B vitamins. Avoid consuming irrita...

Understanding Optic Nerve Degeneration: Causes and Prevention Tips

Hello Doctor: I had an OCT examination at the hospital, and in the I section, both of my eyes showed yellow, while the rest were green. I would like to ask you, 1. At my age, does this mean my eyesight is very poor? (Both eyes are -6.50 diopters) 2. What methods are available to ...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Xiao Ji: It would be best to consult the physician who ordered the OCT examination for interpretation and clarification, as the report is necessary for understanding the situation. Issues related to the optic nerve also require visual field assessment to determine the seve...