Eyes and sight
For many people with MS, one of the more obvious early symptoms is a problem with vision, though not everyone with eye problems will get MS.
Most people with MS who experience visual symptoms recover well.
Vision problems might include temporary loss or blurring of vision, double vision, or a lack of coordination between the two eyes. Vision may vary depending on the time of day or the circumstances - for example, it might get worse when you are stressed, tired or in unfamiliar surroundings.
A problem with vision could be caused by a number of factors - it might not be due to MS. If you develop problems with your vision, ask your GP for a referral to an ophthalmologist (eye specialist) or neurologist.
If sight problems are more permanent or disabling, there are aids and equipment that can make living with low vision easier.
This might include magnifying screens, audio description or talking books.
If you do have a visual impairment, an important way to gain access to services is to become registered as sight impaired or as severely sight impaired.
Optic neuritis is a medical term to describe inflammation of the optic nerve. The optic nerve is the nerve of vision – the pathway that carries messages from the eye to the brain.
Not everyone with optic neuritis will go on to develop MS. Most people recover well within three to five weeks, and steroids can speed up recovery if necessary.
