In optic neuritis, there is usually a severe but temporary loss of vision for several days and pain in the eye when moved.
Treatment is directed toward the underlying cause.
Systemic corticosteroids may be helpful, but the tendency without treatment is toward improvement. Visual acuity usually begins to improve in 2-3 weeks, and sometimes returns to normal in a few days. Central scotomas are the most common visual field defect, but any unilateral field change is possible. A single attack of optic neuritis is not likely to leave severe damage, but permanent and significant visual loss is probable over a period of years when recurrent attacks are experienced.