Vision loss due to encephalitis

[wooddragon]

at the onset of the infection of the West Nile virus, it was noted by the patient that there were noticeable problems with his vision.  His forward vision seemed dim and somewhat blurry often.  His peripheral vision was cloudy and dark.   What treatments are available to prevent the vision loss?


This discussion is related to Blurred Vision, West Nile Virus, Eye Stroke.

[wooddragon]

I first saw an ophthalmologist who stated that I had a scratch on my cornea and I did have damage to my peripheral vision. He then stated that as he did not believe he was qualified to treat me, bed I was therefore referred to an opthalomogic  neurologist who confirmed the damage to my vision and further stated that there was nothing to reverse it.  He will be reviewing the records from when I was hospitalized and being treated for WNV so he can learn what tests were done and what treatments if any were administered.  I had complained about the issues with my vision shortly after becoming lucid enough to communicate.  I don't have much recollection of any vision tests with the exception of being offered eyedrops to address dryness and irritation...it was Alcon Isopto Tears.

Back to my initial question... Are there any treatments that would have been beneficial to aid in curbing or preventing the vision problems?

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

It depends on what part of the eye was affected. Or is the peripheral vision loss from the brain.  Please see an ophthalmologist.

Dr. O.