What is neuromyelitis optica?
Neuromyelitis optica is a rare condition which can affect anyone and at any age. It affects the spinal cord and nerves in the eyes.
What causes neuromyelitis optica?
Neuromyelitis optica is caused by an abnormal reaction from the immune system when it attacks the healthy tissues in the spinal cord and nerves in the eyes.
It isn’t considered to be genetic but could occur due to having another autoimmune condition already.
What are the symptoms of neuromyelitis optica?
The symptoms of NMO can vary widely from person to person. Inflammation and swelling of the spinal cord are referred to as transverse myelitis, while inflammation of the optic nerves is called optic neuritis.
If a person has a specific antibody in their blood that is connected with neuromyelitis optica, they would be considered to be on the spectrum.
Symptoms of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder can vary from mild to severe and can include:
- Loss of vision
- Weakness in arms or legs
- Sharp, burning or shooting pains in legs
- Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
- Bladder and bowel problems
