Neuro-Ophthalmology specializes in the intricate relationship of the brain and the visual system. Five of the 12 major nerves in the cranium play a role in vision. Nerve diseases and other problems can affect the optic nerve and other pathways that carry vision signals to the brain, or compromise vision by affecting tissues around the eye itself.
Giant Cell Arteritis
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, is a chronic inflammation of the lining of medium- and large-sized arteries. The cause of giant cell arteritis is unknown. Left untreated it can lead to blindness. Treatment should be initiated as soon as the diagnosis is suspected. Giant cell arteritis rarely occurs in people below...
Bells Palsy
Bell’s palsy is a disorder of the facial nerve, the seventh cranial nerve. This condition causes partial paralysis on one side of the face, affecting the muscles of facial expression. Bell’s palsy usually occurs in adults and develops suddenly. Symptoms of Bell’s palsy include the inability to smile on one side or close one eyelid...
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that causes your body to produce antibodies that mistakenly attack the myelin sheath protecting your nerve tissue. This chronic central nervous system disorder damages the nerves and causes the gradual loss of muscle control, strength, and vision. MS affects people differently. Some have only mild symptoms, while others...
Headache
Headaches are one of the most common health complaints. They are caused by a variety of factors and can be divided into the following groups: Tension headaches This is the most common type of headache. The pain may be felt in the forehead, temples, neck, or around the eyes. Doctors are uncertain about the cause...
Optic Neuritis
Optic neuritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve. This nerve is the pathway that carries impulses from the retina in the back of the eye to the brain and enables the brain to interpret the impulses as images. If the nerves are damaged, vision is greatly affected. This condition may affect...
Stroke
A stroke is a life-threatening emergency in which the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or severely reduced, depriving it of oxygen and killing brain cells. Quick treatment could save your life and minimize damage to your brain. Major causes of stroke include: high blood pressure; high cholesterol; diabetes; cardiovascular disease; obesity;...
Diplopia
Diplopia is double vision caused by a problem with the muscles that control the eye or the nerves that stimulate those muscles. Many conditions can cause diplopia. Double vision is usually a symptom of strabismus (misalignment of the eyes), due to the improper movement of one or more eye muscles. Strabismus is most often found...