Preparing for an appointment

If you have signs and symptoms of optic neuritis, you'll likely see your family doctor or a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating eye diseases (ophthalmologist or neuro-ophthalmologist).

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, especially vision changes
• Key personal information, including any recent stressors, major life changes, and family and personal medical history, including recent infections and other conditions you have
• All medications, vitamins and other supplements you take, including doses
• Questions to ask your doctor

Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember the information you're given.

For optic neuritis, questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is likely causing my symptoms?
• Are there other possible causes?
• What tests do I need?
• What treatments do you recommend?
• What are the possible side effects of the medications you're recommending?
• How long will it take for my eyesight to improve?
• Does this put me at greater risk of developing multiple sclerosis, and, if so, what can I do to prevent it?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together?
• Do you have brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as:

• How would you describe your symptoms?
• How significantly has your vision decreased?
• Do colors look less vivid?
• Have your symptoms changed over time?
• Does anything seem to improve or worsen your symptoms?
• Have you noticed problems with movement and coordination or numbness or weakness in your arms and legs?