Vision problems affect a majority of people with multiple sclerosis (MS), yet it is rare that a patient suffer from complete blindness due to the symptoms of MS. Sight problems can be treated with the help of a doctor. They can also be managed at home by preparing your surroundings for easier living.

Treating vision loss involves treating its cause. Treatments that may be used for neurological causes of vision loss include medications and surgery. However, vision loss due to brain or nerve damage often cannot be reversed. In these cases, treatment often focuses on controlling a patient’s symptoms and developing skills to adapt to vision loss. A number of treatment methods may help, including specialized training and use of mobility aids and/or voice-generating devices.

People with MS can experience double vision, eye discomfort and uncontrollable eye movements. Generally, eye pain is present when the eyes are moved. Inflammation of the optic nerve (called Optic Neuritis) causes blurred vision, color confusion and even blindness in one eye. Fifty-five percent of MS patients will have an attack of optic neuritis. In 15% of people, optic neuritis is the symptom that results in an MS diagnosis.

Signs and Symptoms
Painful: Most people with optic neuritis (about 90%) experience pain when moving their eyes. This pain usually subsides after a couple of days, even if vision is still affected.
Appearing Over a Couple of Days: For most people, the onset is pretty rapid, with the peak vision loss occurring within 24 to 48 hours of onset.
Usually Only in One Eye: Optic neuritis can affect the vision in both eyes simultaneously, but this is extremely rare.
Blurring
Reduced light
Absence of color
Flashes of light when the eyes are moved, called phosphenes
A "blank spot" in the middle of the eye, called a scotoma