Often, eye health can provide a window into your overall wellness. In some cases, conditions that eye doctors uncover during routine exams may point to other underlying health issues. This is often the case with papilledema, or swelling of the optic nerve. Here’s what you should know about this condition. 

What Are the Causes of Papilledema?

Papilledema results from increased pressure on the optic nerve from the brain. Typically, there’s another health factor that leads to this issue, such as head trauma, extremely high blood pressure, a brain tumor, or spinal cord lesions. The cause can also be idiopathic intracranial hypertension, in which the body creates too much cerebrospinal fluid. Starting or stopping certain medications, including corticosteroids and lithium, may also cause papilledema. 

What Are the Symptoms?

People with papilledema experience vision disturbances, such as loss of peripheral vision or blurred vision. Visual symptoms are often accompanied by headaches, which may vary in intensity and become worse over time. It’s also common to hear a throbbing sound in your head. Even if you don’t have any accompanying symptoms, visual changes always warrant a visit to the eye doctor.

How Is It Treated? 

While your eye doctor can diagnose papilledema, you may need to see a general practitioner or specialists to check for any underlying conditions. Because papilledema is usually a symptom of another medical issue, treating the root cause is the best method for addressing it. For example, surgery may be needed to remove a tumor. If a medication is causing the symptom, your doctor may be able to switch your prescription. In the case of excess spinal fluid, removing some fluid at regular intervals can alleviate the pressure around the eye. 

Whether you’re experiencing vision changes or you’re simply due for a routine eye exam, Alexander Eye Associates & Optical is your source for top-notch eye care. Serving the Rochester, NY, area, this optometrist’s office has state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and treat common eye issues. Find out more about their services online or schedule an appointment by calling (585) 325-3070.