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What is Bilateral Optic Atrophy?
Optic atrophy is degeneration of the optic nerve. The optic nerve carries image signals from the back of the eye (retina) to the brain. Optic atrophy is caused by damage or destruction of the optic nerve and can occur in one or both eyes.
Why this happens??
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- Optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve). It is characterised by eye pain made worse by moving the eye. Optic neuritis usually develops abruptly over hours to days, stabilises, and then improves. However, in rare cases, optic neuritis can be irreversible.
- Toxins and certain drugs can damage the optic nerve (Toxic optic neuropathy). Symptoms can be gradual or sudden.This is thought to be caused by exposure toxins and by low levels of vitamin B12 due to poor nutrition and poor absorption in people. Other toxins that can cause optic neuropathy include methyl alcohol, ethylene glycol (antifreeze), lead, and carbon monoxide.
- Nutritional deficiencies - Amino acid and vitamin deficiencies (B12 and folate) can damage the optic nerve (nutritional optic neuropathy). Causes include starvation, malabsorption and alcoholism.
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