Page 104 - South Mississippi Living - March, 2026

HEALTHY LIVING
Fading Vision
What You Need To Know
story by
Dr. Nickie Harris-Ray
Ischemic optic neuropathy is a condition that causes sudden vision loss. It has two types: one from inflamed arteries supplying the optic nerve, and one from other causes. Treatment depends on the type and severity of nerve damage.
The optic nerve carries signals from your eyes to your brain, creating the images you see. When blood flow to this nerve is blocked, it loses oxygen and stops working properly. This can cause sudden vision loss in one or both eyes, affecting both central and side vision.
A warning sign is temporary vision darkening that returns to normal—called a transient ischemic attack. This often happens before permanent vision loss occurs.
You should see your doctor as soon as possible if you
have this symptom, whether it be your primary caregiver
or ophthalmologist. Other warning signs include frequent headaches, muscle aches, scalp pain when combing hair, and jaw pain while eating. See your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms. Quick treatment can prevent further damage.
An ophthalmologist diagnoses this condition through an eye
exam. They’ll use drops to dilate your pupils and check for swelling in the optic nerve and blood vessels. A blood test may also be done to check for giant cell arteritis.
Steroids can protect your unaffected eye from developing the same condition. It will be prescribed if your ischemic optic neuropathy is being caused by the arteries in your head being inflamed. Your doctor will also address underlying health issues that raise your risk, including diabetes, high blood pressure, migraines, and blocked arteries.
While vision loss cannot be reversed, your eye doctor can provide helpful aids such as magnifiers and assistive devices to help you navigate daily life with reduced vision. Fortunately, most people only develop this condition in one eye.
You can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy lifestyle that prevents heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Quitting smoking also helps lower your risk.
After diagnosis, regular checkups with your doctor are essential for monitoring your condition. If your symptoms worsen, your doctor can recommend steps to preserve your remaining vision.
104 | March 2026
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