Neurological eye disease encompasses visual problems arising from the brain, optic nerves, and pathways rather than from the eye structures alone. These conditions can affect sight, eye movements, or visual perception.
Examples
Optic neuritis, compressive optic neuropathies, strokes affecting visual pathways, brain tumours, and conditions such as multiple sclerosis or migraine with aura all fall within this category. Symptoms include visual field loss, double vision, reduced colour vision, or transient visual phenomena.
- Some neurological eye problems present suddenly and require urgent assessment
- Cranial nerve palsies can cause misalignment and double vision
- Systemic neurological signs such as weakness or speech difficulty may accompany visual changes
- Investigation often involves MRI or CT imaging and visual field testing
Treatment
Management focuses on the underlying neurological cause, using medical, surgical, or rehabilitative approaches. Eye specialists and neurologists frequently work together.
- Early diagnosis can prevent further vision or neurological loss
- Prisms, occlusion, or surgery may help with persistent double vision
- Visual rehabilitation and support services assist those with permanent deficits
- Regular monitoring is important in chronic neurological conditions
