Vision problems caused by MS can be frightening, but in many cases they improve over time.
By Ingrid Strauch Medically Reviewed by Jason Paul Chua, MD, PhD
Reviewed: June 28, 2021
Eye and vision problems commonly occur among people who have multiple sclerosis (MS), and they’re often the first symptom of MS for many people, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS).
Per a review published in June 2021 in Neurology and Therapy, the most common vision problems among people who have MS include reduced visual sharpness and contrast sensitivity, changes to color vision, and ocular motility disorders (disorders that affect the motion of the eyes).
Some of the eye complications associated with MS include optic neuritis, nystagmus, and diplopia. However, the prognosis is good for recovery from many of these vision problems, notes the NMSS.
Vision problems can negatively affect quality of life for people living with MS, due to reduced ability to participate in activities, daily life limitations, and decreased driving ability, according to the Neurology and Therapy review.
If you have any symptoms affecting your eyes or vision, see your doctor. It’s important for people with MS to have regular visits with an ophthalmologist to help diagnose and treat the eye conditions that can occur when you have MS, notes the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Continue reading to learn about: Optic Neuritis, Nystagmus and Diplopia
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