SEE WELL

Optic neuritis is an ocular sign of central nervous system (CNS) inflammation. The CNS is composed of the brain and spinal cord.

Specifically, optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve. Inflammation is the process in the body where white blood vessels and chemical messengers are sent to an area of the body to initiate the healing process or to attack a foreign body. The optic nerve can become inflamed due to autoimmunity, infection, granulomatous diseases, tumor disorders, and demyelination.

The CNS system sends signals from the brain to the other parts of the body through nerves. Nerves tell the parts of the body what to do. Myelin is an insulation that wraps around the axon part of the nerve to speed nerve activity and signal conduction. Myelin is produced by a type of CNS cell called an oligodendrocyte. Attacks of demyelination can occur in parts of the brain, the spinal cord, and the optic nerve.

Our eyes are intricate and delicate structures that are essential for how we perceive the world. While it’s easy to take your vision for granted, occasional abnormalities can occur and when they do, they often cause serious alarm and concern.

One such unsettling occurrence is the appearance of a subconjunctival hemorrhage, or the presence of blood in the eye. 

The presence of a subconjunctival hemorrhage can be especially alarming when it shows up in the conjunctiva, or the thin, clear membrane that protects the eye, the inside of the eyelid, and the sclera (the white part of the eye).

While the presence of blood in your eye can be quite alarming at first glance, understanding its causes, risk factors, and potential treatments can help alleviate fears and even improve your overall eye health.