Papilledema

[GaryGnuh]

I recently had a redness in my eye for around 4 weeks.  Although it had gone away, I agreed with my wife I would go see her eye doctor, as she had an appointment anyways.  The opthomologist told me I need a very light prescription, but that he wanted to send me to a retinal opthomologist to look into some inflammation on my optic nerve.  
I went and saw the retinal specialist on a Monday, who sent me directly to a neurologist for examination.  At the neurologist, he gave me a complete neurological examination, and told me everything is normal (blood pressure, etc.).  He stated to me that he wanted to get some blood work done and an MRI.  I had the blood work done the same day, and the following day I had my MRI.
I have a follow up appointment in a week with the neurologist, and I have the films of the MRI.  
Other than the redness in the eye, I had no symptoms or any problems (headaches, nausea, vomiting, impaired vision).  I am 6'3" and weigh 270 lbs.  When I have read about papilledema, I have read so many things about the disease, I am starting to become concerned.  Considering I have not been sick in months, this kind is throwing me into a panic.  Although I do not consider myself unhealthy, I realize there are some weight issues and I smoke which could be causing this.  I have never had any health concerns, surgeries, illness that required long term treatment, etc.
My question is, that given I had no symptoms, I feel generally healthy, should I be drastically concerned?  Is there something I could have done to prevent this from happening?  Could this be something I have had all my life, and not known it?  
I am just looking for some positive reinforcement.
Thanks,
Gary  

[Cath278]

Hi Gary.I just read your post and thought I would tell you a bit about me. You might find some thing  useful in it I hope. After suffering from blurry vision since May 07 and many change of prescription glasses, I finally saw a neuro in May 08.Also, within two days a Ophthalmogist. First findings were the Papillodedma. Based on that and they fact that I had developed a very bad headache in the preceding mths,I was sent for a battery of tests. Some were, MRI,Cat scan,etc. Every thing came back clear. Next lumber puncture. My opening pressure was 4600-46. Should be between 11-15. Result was IIH. Idopathic Intracranial Hypertention. It is quite rare and difficult to diagnoise.I am not suggesting that you might have it, just giving you some idea of where to go looking for  information. If i can help in any way, give me a shout. I know alot about paps, I just tend to ramble on a bit these days! Oh ! Dont for a minute  think you did some thing wrong. This is just life.Some people get it , some dont. Just concentrate on getting better.Best wishes, Cath 278

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

I am unable to answer you questions without a diagnosis.  Papilledema is a sign and not a diagnosis.

It usually means that the intracranial pressure is elevated.  Many causes from a brain tumor to as suggest about Idiopathic Intracranial hypertension.

Be patient and follow up with your neurologist.

Dr. O.

[GaryGnuh]

Thanks for the feedback.  I just feel a little panicked because I actually am feeling great.  My vision is fine, I have not had any headaches or illness.  I just wish the MRI people would have told me something.  It's hard to wait a week on something like this.  

[Cath278]

Hi.Glad you are feeling calmer. Also glad to hear you are not in any pain. Try and keep busy while you wait for MRI results. Keep in mind that the results may be negitive and you may have to go for more tests.Some thing is wrong if you have Papillodema but thankfully you are under the care of a neuro and they will get to the bottom of the problem.If any thing comes up that you dont understand, drop back here and we will try to help.Fingers crossed for you! Cath278.