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",{"items":33},[34],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an eye test","/book/location",false,{"anchorLinksCollection":39},{"items":40},[41,46,51,56,61,66,71],{"anchorLabel":42,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":43},"How MS affects your vision",{"sys":44},{"id":45},"8HeOFMITBHfzJHP5wrEgv",{"anchorLabel":47,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":48}," Symptoms",{"sys":49},{"id":50},"2FjMXTQVjl3rbTVvxe4KCP",{"anchorLabel":52,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":53},"Causes",{"sys":54},{"id":55},"4HXLXnfcFrzgyM8FwEpFhR",{"anchorLabel":57,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":58},"Diagnosis",{"sys":59},{"id":60},"1Fm32QE5cd6NC7s09ndXSv",{"anchorLabel":62,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":63},"Treatment",{"sys":64},{"id":65},"4KsCv5C6wTPfExQGHeCAdH",{"anchorLabel":67,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":68}," Managing Symptoms ",{"sys":69},{"id":70},"1LjZ3MaRt5DP2WYRR3aZhV",{"anchorLabel":72,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":73},"FAQs",{"sys":74},{"id":75},"6MCz0OANexX0lbHemRIu7r",{"items":77},[78,86,109,175,234,243,371,426,535,558,563,594,687,800,907,1050,1063,1092,1144,1174],{"__typename":79,"sys":80,"linkEntries":82,"title":84,"body":85,"leftAligned":16},"Summary",{"id":81},"afQB91mvrUrAMsDJaQEyX",{"items":83},[],"Multiple sclerosis eye symptoms overview ","Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder where your body mistakenly attacks itself. 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","text","heading-2",{"data":127,"content":128,"nodeType":170},{},[129,133,142,146,154,158,166],{"data":130,"marks":131,"value":132,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS affects your eyes because the condition can cause damage to the optic nerves. You might notice ",{"data":134,"content":136,"nodeType":141},{"uri":135},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/blurry-vision",[137],{"data":138,"marks":139,"value":140,"nodeType":124},{},[],"blurry vision","hyperlink",{"data":143,"marks":144,"value":145,"nodeType":124},{},[],", ",{"data":147,"content":149,"nodeType":141},{"uri":148},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/eye-pain",[150],{"data":151,"marks":152,"value":153,"nodeType":124},{},[],"pain when moving your eyes",{"data":155,"marks":156,"value":157,"nodeType":124},{},[],", or ",{"data":159,"content":161,"nodeType":141},{"uri":160},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/double-vision",[162],{"data":163,"marks":164,"value":165,"nodeType":124},{},[],"seeing double",{"data":167,"marks":168,"value":169,"nodeType":124},{},[],". 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","heading-3",{"data":207,"content":208,"nodeType":170},{},[209],{"data":210,"marks":211,"value":212,"nodeType":124},{},[],"While optometrists cannot diagnose MS itself, they can spot eye changes that might be a sign of MS. During an eye exam for MS, optometrists look for signs of optic nerve swelling, colour vision changes, and visual field defects. If your optometrist notices anything concerning, they'll refer you to a specialist. 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",{"items":241},[242],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"__typename":110,"sys":244,"theme":193,"genericTextComponent":246},{"id":245},"4v6PsAXU91ArCEQEokXYjA",{"json":247,"links":366},{"data":248,"content":249,"nodeType":171},{},[250,257,264,271,278,285,292,299,317,324,341,348,355,360],{"data":251,"content":252,"nodeType":125},{},[253],{"data":254,"marks":255,"value":256,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Symptoms of MS affecting your eyes ",{"data":258,"content":259,"nodeType":170},{},[260],{"data":261,"marks":262,"value":263,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS can cause various eye symptoms that may appear suddenly or develop gradually. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, but understanding them helps you know when to seek help. ",{"data":265,"content":266,"nodeType":205},{},[267],{"data":268,"marks":269,"value":270,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Optic neuritis",{"data":272,"content":273,"nodeType":170},{},[274],{"data":275,"marks":276,"value":277,"nodeType":124},{},[],"This is inflammation of the optic nerve, causing vision loss, eye pain (especially when moving your eyes), and colour vision problems. It's often the first sign of MS.  ",{"data":279,"content":280,"nodeType":205},{},[281],{"data":282,"marks":283,"value":284,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS-related blurry vision",{"data":286,"content":287,"nodeType":170},{},[288],{"data":289,"marks":290,"value":291,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Blurred or cloudy vision can occur due to optic nerve inflammation or other MS-related changes in the visual system. ",{"data":293,"content":294,"nodeType":205},{},[295],{"data":296,"marks":297,"value":298,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Double vision",{"data":300,"content":301,"nodeType":170},{},[302,306,313],{"data":303,"marks":304,"value":305,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS can affect the nerves controlling eye movement, causing you to see two images instead of one. \nLearn more about ",{"data":307,"content":308,"nodeType":141},{"uri":160},[309],{"data":310,"marks":311,"value":312,"nodeType":124},{},[],"double vision",{"data":314,"marks":315,"value":316,"nodeType":124},{},[]," ",{"data":318,"content":319,"nodeType":205},{},[320],{"data":321,"marks":322,"value":323,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Eye pain",{"data":325,"content":326,"nodeType":170},{},[327,331,338],{"data":328,"marks":329,"value":330,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Pain behind or around the eye, especially when moving your eyes, is common with optic neuritis. \nLearn more about ",{"data":332,"content":333,"nodeType":141},{"uri":148},[334],{"data":335,"marks":336,"value":337,"nodeType":124},{},[],"eye pain",{"data":339,"marks":340,"value":316,"nodeType":124},{},[],{"data":342,"content":343,"nodeType":205},{},[344],{"data":345,"marks":346,"value":347,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Oscillopsia",{"data":349,"content":350,"nodeType":170},{},[351],{"data":352,"marks":353,"value":354,"nodeType":124},{},[],"This bouncing or jumping vision makes it feel like the world is moving when it's not. ",{"data":356,"content":359,"nodeType":221},{"target":357},{"sys":358},{"id":217,"type":218,"linkType":219},[],{"data":361,"content":362,"nodeType":170},{},[363],{"data":364,"marks":365,"value":228,"nodeType":124},{},[],{"entries":367},{"block":368},[369],{"__typename":218,"sys":370,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":217},{"__typename":176,"sys":372,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":373,"leftColumnCollection":374,"rightColumnCollection":400},{"id":55},"Blue",{"items":375},[376],{"__typename":110,"sys":377,"theme":193,"genericTextComponent":379},{"id":378},"5RNGXgY1SBorMrlPfuZqXT",{"json":380,"links":397},{"data":381,"content":382,"nodeType":171},{},[383,390],{"data":384,"content":385,"nodeType":205},{},[386],{"data":387,"marks":388,"value":389,"nodeType":124},{},[],"What causes MS eye symptoms? ",{"data":391,"content":392,"nodeType":170},{},[393],{"data":394,"marks":395,"value":396,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS eye symptoms are caused by damage to the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibres. When MS attacks the optic nerve or brain areas controlling vision, it disrupts the normal flow of visual information. This can happen anywhere along the visual pathway, from your eyes to your brain, causing different types of vision problems depending on where the damage occurs. ",{"entries":398},{"block":399},[],{"items":401},[402],{"__typename":110,"sys":403,"theme":193,"genericTextComponent":405},{"id":404},"71SNKkl2ZTQSPqfdXvkeol",{"json":406,"links":423},{"data":407,"content":408,"nodeType":171},{},[409,416],{"data":410,"content":411,"nodeType":205},{},[412],{"data":413,"marks":414,"value":415,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Who's more likely to get it? ",{"data":417,"content":418,"nodeType":170},{},[419],{"data":420,"marks":421,"value":422,"nodeType":124},{},[],"People diagnosed with MS are at risk of developing eye symptoms, with optic neuritis affecting about 50% of people with MS at some point. It's more common in women and typically occurs between ages 20-40. Those with certain types of MS, particularly relapsing-remitting MS, are more likely to experience vision problems. Having one episode of optic neuritis also increases the risk of developing MS. ",{"entries":424},{"block":425},[],{"__typename":110,"sys":427,"theme":193,"genericTextComponent":428},{"id":60},{"json":429,"links":522},{"data":430,"content":431,"nodeType":171},{},[432,439,445,452,459,466,473,480,487,494,501,508,515],{"data":433,"content":434,"nodeType":125},{},[435],{"data":436,"marks":437,"value":438,"nodeType":124},{},[],"How are MS eye symptoms diagnosed? ",{"data":440,"content":444,"nodeType":221},{"target":441},{"sys":442},{"id":443,"type":218,"linkType":219},"71aw5gTb5FgxbpbkOqPrJ0",[],{"data":446,"content":447,"nodeType":170},{},[448],{"data":449,"marks":450,"value":451,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Can an optometrist detect MS symptoms? Yes, optometrists can identify eye changes that may be related to MS. During a vision test for MS, they'll perform comprehensive examinations to assess your visual function and can refer you to an appropriate medical professional for further evaluation.",{"data":453,"content":454,"nodeType":205},{},[455],{"data":456,"marks":457,"value":458,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Patient history",{"data":460,"content":461,"nodeType":170},{},[462],{"data":463,"marks":464,"value":465,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Your optometrist will ask about your symptoms, any previous vision problems, and your general health.",{"data":467,"content":468,"nodeType":205},{},[469],{"data":470,"marks":471,"value":472,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Visual acuity test",{"data":474,"content":475,"nodeType":170},{},[476],{"data":477,"marks":478,"value":479,"nodeType":124},{},[],"This checks how clearly you can see at various distances and may reveal vision loss from optic neuritis. ",{"data":481,"content":482,"nodeType":205},{},[483],{"data":484,"marks":485,"value":486,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Colour vision testing",{"data":488,"content":489,"nodeType":170},{},[490],{"data":491,"marks":492,"value":493,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS can affect colour perception, so this test helps identify optic nerve problems. ",{"data":495,"content":496,"nodeType":205},{},[497],{"data":498,"marks":499,"value":500,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Visual field testing",{"data":502,"content":503,"nodeType":170},{},[504],{"data":505,"marks":506,"value":507,"nodeType":124},{},[],"This maps your peripheral vision to detect any blind spots or visual field defects. ",{"data":509,"content":510,"nodeType":205},{},[511],{"data":512,"marks":513,"value":514,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Optic nerve examination",{"data":516,"content":517,"nodeType":170},{},[518],{"data":519,"marks":520,"value":521,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Using special equipment, optometrists can examine the optic nerve for signs of inflammation or damage. ",{"entries":523},{"block":524},[525],{"__typename":526,"sys":527,"imageEntriesCollection":528},"MediaImageSet",{"id":443},{"items":529},[530],{"__typename":183,"sys":531,"captionText":17,"imageAltText":17,"imageLink":17,"image":533},{"id":532},"1Uyy3pe0PdTMVTzyZm85E3",{"url":534},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/5WwH88Rg8dctTHGwQcu6By/859fdd2409bfb72c265403b034ec0e19/webimage-CA50E21F-1C20-4909-A642E9A207B5603E.jpg",{"__typename":110,"sys":536,"theme":112,"genericTextComponent":537},{"id":65},{"json":538,"links":555},{"data":539,"content":540,"nodeType":171},{},[541,548],{"data":542,"content":543,"nodeType":125},{},[544],{"data":545,"marks":546,"value":547,"nodeType":124},{},[],"How are MS eye symptoms treated? ",{"data":549,"content":550,"nodeType":170},{},[551],{"data":552,"marks":553,"value":554,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Treatment for MS eye symptoms depends on the specific problem and its severity. If your vision suddenly changes, book an eye test or speak to your specialist. We can help with lens changes, prism glasses for double vision, and advice on coping with fatigue-related blurring. ",{"entries":556},{"block":557},[],{"__typename":235,"sys":559,"title":238,"body":239,"theme":24,"buttonCollection":560},{"id":237},{"items":561},[562],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"__typename":110,"sys":564,"theme":193,"genericTextComponent":566},{"id":565},"4MBI4eyTTqcoCST7H1xCMY",{"json":567,"links":591},{"data":568,"content":569,"nodeType":171},{},[570,577,584],{"data":571,"content":572,"nodeType":205},{},[573],{"data":574,"marks":575,"value":576,"nodeType":124},{},[],"More support for MS ",{"data":578,"content":579,"nodeType":170},{},[580],{"data":581,"marks":582,"value":583,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Living with MS can be really challenging. There are charities that can offer more advice and support if you're living with multiple sclerosis.  ",{"data":585,"content":586,"nodeType":170},{},[587],{"data":588,"marks":589,"value":590,"nodeType":124},{},[],"In Australia, state and territory-based MS organisations provide care and support services to people living with MS.\n ",{"entries":592},{"block":593},[],{"__typename":110,"sys":595,"theme":112,"genericTextComponent":597},{"id":596},"G4wQ7A6ry56aQMikdjHgp",{"json":598,"links":684},{"data":599,"content":600,"nodeType":171},{},[601,608,615,623,630,637,644,651,658,665,672,678],{"data":602,"content":603,"nodeType":205},{},[604],{"data":605,"marks":606,"value":607,"nodeType":124},{},[],"When MS eye symptoms need help ",{"data":609,"content":610,"nodeType":170},{},[611],{"data":612,"marks":613,"value":614,"nodeType":124},{},[],"While some MS vision changes may improve on their own, others require specific treatment. It's important to seek help promptly, especially if symptoms appear suddenly or worsen quickly. ",{"data":616,"content":617,"nodeType":622},{},[618],{"data":619,"marks":620,"value":621,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Steroid treatment","heading-4",{"data":624,"content":625,"nodeType":170},{},[626],{"data":627,"marks":628,"value":629,"nodeType":124},{},[],"For acute optic neuritis, doctors may prescribe steroids to reduce inflammation and speed recovery. ",{"data":631,"content":632,"nodeType":622},{},[633],{"data":634,"marks":635,"value":636,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Prism glasses",{"data":638,"content":639,"nodeType":170},{},[640],{"data":641,"marks":642,"value":643,"nodeType":124},{},[],"For double vision, special prism lenses can help align images and reduce symptoms. ",{"data":645,"content":646,"nodeType":622},{},[647],{"data":648,"marks":649,"value":650,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Vision aids",{"data":652,"content":653,"nodeType":170},{},[654],{"data":655,"marks":656,"value":657,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Low vision aids and magnifiers can help if vision loss is permanent. ",{"data":659,"content":660,"nodeType":622},{},[661],{"data":662,"marks":663,"value":664,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS medications",{"data":666,"content":667,"nodeType":170},{},[668],{"data":669,"marks":670,"value":671,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Disease-modifying treatments for MS may help prevent future vision problems. ",{"data":673,"content":674,"nodeType":170},{},[675],{"data":676,"marks":677,"value":228,"nodeType":124},{},[],{"data":679,"content":680,"nodeType":170},{},[681],{"data":682,"marks":683,"value":228,"nodeType":124},{},[],{"entries":685},{"block":686},[],{"__typename":110,"sys":688,"theme":193,"genericTextComponent":689},{"id":70},{"json":690,"links":788},{"data":691,"content":692,"nodeType":171},{},[693,700,707,713,720,727,734,741,748,755,762,769,776,782],{"data":694,"content":695,"nodeType":205},{},[696],{"data":697,"marks":698,"value":699,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Managing daily life with MS vision changes ",{"data":701,"content":702,"nodeType":170},{},[703],{"data":704,"marks":705,"value":706,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Living with MS eye symptoms can be challenging, but there are ways to adapt. Use good lighting, take regular breaks from visual tasks, and consider fatigue management as tiredness can worsen vision problems. ",{"data":708,"content":709,"nodeType":170},{},[710],{"data":711,"marks":712,"value":228,"nodeType":124},{},[],{"data":714,"content":715,"nodeType":205},{},[716],{"data":717,"marks":718,"value":719,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Managing MS eye symptoms ",{"data":721,"content":722,"nodeType":622},{},[723],{"data":724,"marks":725,"value":726,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Optic neuritis management ",{"data":728,"content":729,"nodeType":170},{},[730],{"data":731,"marks":732,"value":733,"nodeType":124},{},[],"This is the most common MS eye symptom. Treatment may include steroids to reduce inflammation and speed recovery. Most people see improvement within weeks to months, though some changes may be permanent. ",{"data":735,"content":736,"nodeType":622},{},[737],{"data":738,"marks":739,"value":740,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Double vision solutions ",{"data":742,"content":743,"nodeType":170},{},[744],{"data":745,"marks":746,"value":747,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS can affect eye movement control. Prism glasses, eye patches, or exercises may help. In severe cases, botulinum toxin (botox) injections might be considered to relax overactive eye muscles. ",{"data":749,"content":750,"nodeType":622},{},[751],{"data":752,"marks":753,"value":754,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Oscillopsia coping strategies ",{"data":756,"content":757,"nodeType":170},{},[758],{"data":759,"marks":760,"value":761,"nodeType":124},{},[],"This bouncing vision can be challenging. Reducing head movements, using walking aids for stability, and adjusting lighting can help. Some people benefit from medication to reduce eye movement problems. ",{"data":763,"content":764,"nodeType":622},{},[765],{"data":766,"marks":767,"value":768,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Fatigue-related vision changes ",{"data":770,"content":771,"nodeType":170},{},[772],{"data":773,"marks":774,"value":775,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS fatigue can worsen existing vision problems. Plan demanding visual tasks for when you're most alert, take regular breaks, and ensure good lighting to reduce eye strain. ",{"data":777,"content":781,"nodeType":221},{"target":778},{"sys":779},{"id":780,"type":218,"linkType":219},"uxt2Y0mdkCvSkVxJDmWPG",[],{"data":783,"content":784,"nodeType":170},{},[785],{"data":786,"marks":787,"value":228,"nodeType":124},{},[],{"entries":789},{"block":790},[791],{"__typename":526,"sys":792,"imageEntriesCollection":793},{"id":780},{"items":794},[795],{"__typename":183,"sys":796,"captionText":17,"imageAltText":17,"imageLink":17,"image":798},{"id":797},"43NOHNDLjBpbfyq2u0fEZX",{"url":799},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/5ALTuGpptMz8kQjufWpyqj/ff9a59d3535435d848f0679f40714126/Module35_Expertise_Article_536x302_no-derivative.jpg",{"__typename":110,"sys":801,"theme":112,"genericTextComponent":803},{"id":802},"20ZihwVPjJAfuRQk34bXRw",{"json":804,"links":904},{"data":805,"content":806,"nodeType":171},{},[807,814,821,828,835,842,849,856,863,870,877,884,891,898],{"data":808,"content":809,"nodeType":125},{},[810],{"data":811,"marks":812,"value":813,"nodeType":124},{},[],"When to contact your MS team ",{"data":815,"content":816,"nodeType":205},{},[817],{"data":818,"marks":819,"value":820,"nodeType":124},{},[],"New or sudden vision changes ",{"data":822,"content":823,"nodeType":170},{},[824],{"data":825,"marks":826,"value":827,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Contact your MS nurse or neurologist immediately if you experience sudden vision loss, new double vision, or severe eye pain. These could indicate a relapse requiring prompt treatment. ",{"data":829,"content":830,"nodeType":205},{},[831],{"data":832,"marks":833,"value":834,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Gradual worsening of vision ",{"data":836,"content":837,"nodeType":170},{},[838],{"data":839,"marks":840,"value":841,"nodeType":124},{},[],"If your vision is slowly getting worse over weeks or months, this might indicate disease progression. Keep a symptom diary and discuss changes at your next MS appointment. ",{"data":843,"content":844,"nodeType":205},{},[845],{"data":846,"marks":847,"value":848,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Vision problems affecting daily life ",{"data":850,"content":851,"nodeType":170},{},[852],{"data":853,"marks":854,"value":855,"nodeType":124},{},[],"If eye symptoms are impacting work, driving, or daily activities, speak to your MS team about treatment options and referrals to vision rehabilitation services. ",{"data":857,"content":858,"nodeType":205},{},[859],{"data":860,"marks":861,"value":862,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Your optometrist's role ",{"data":864,"content":865,"nodeType":170},{},[866],{"data":867,"marks":868,"value":869,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Regular eye tests help monitor vision changes and ensure optimal correction. Your optometrist can work with your MS team to coordinate care and provide updates on your eye health. ",{"data":871,"content":872,"nodeType":205},{},[873],{"data":874,"marks":875,"value":876,"nodeType":124},{},[],"MS nurse coordination ",{"data":878,"content":879,"nodeType":170},{},[880],{"data":881,"marks":882,"value":883,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Your nurse can help coordinate between different healthcare providers, including optometrists. They can advise when vision changes need urgent attention versus routine monitoring. ",{"data":885,"content":886,"nodeType":205},{},[887],{"data":888,"marks":889,"value":890,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Neurologist involvement ",{"data":892,"content":893,"nodeType":170},{},[894],{"data":895,"marks":896,"value":897,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Your neurologist may need to adjust MS treatments if you're experiencing frequent vision relapses. They can also refer you to specialist ophthalmologists when needed. ",{"data":899,"content":900,"nodeType":170},{},[901],{"data":902,"marks":903,"value":228,"nodeType":124},{},[],{"entries":905},{"block":906},[],{"__typename":908,"sys":909,"title":910,"theme":911,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":912},"Accordion",{"id":75},"Common MS Eye Health Questions","Grey",{"items":913},[914,930,945,960,975,990,1005,1020,1035],{"__typename":915,"sys":916,"panel":918,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":929},"Faq",{"id":917},"7wHpYpioi5uLI7mZYdAK6b",{"json":919},{"data":920,"content":921,"nodeType":171},{},[922],{"data":923,"content":924,"nodeType":170},{},[925],{"data":926,"marks":927,"value":928,"nodeType":124},{},[],"While an eye exam cannot diagnose MS directly, it can detect changes that suggest neurological problems. Optometrists can spot optic nerve inflammation, visual field defects, and other signs that may indicate MS, leading to appropriate referrals for further testing. ","Can MS be detected in an eye exam?",{"__typename":915,"sys":931,"panel":933,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":944},{"id":932},"1jC6EoZrPvus7Zico6Rzlp",{"json":934},{"data":935,"content":936,"nodeType":171},{},[937],{"data":938,"content":939,"nodeType":170},{},[940],{"data":941,"marks":942,"value":943,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Yes, MS commonly affects vision. About 50% of people with MS experience optic neuritis at some point. MS can cause blurry vision, double vision, eye pain, colour vision problems, and visual field defects due to damage to the optic nerves or brain areas controlling vision.","Does MS affect your eyes?",{"__typename":915,"sys":946,"panel":948,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":959},{"id":947},"6GsSCVGK0cRGq2dwjV8gLm",{"json":949},{"data":950,"content":951,"nodeType":171},{},[952],{"data":953,"content":954,"nodeType":170},{},[955],{"data":956,"marks":957,"value":958,"nodeType":124},{},[],"While MS can cause significant vision loss, complete blindness is rare. Most people with MS-related vision problems retain some sight, and many experience improvement over time. Early treatment and regular monitoring help preserve vision. ","Can MS cause blindness?",{"__typename":915,"sys":961,"panel":963,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":974},{"id":962},"4wrVBe9gqV5dofrkAWMTF5",{"json":964},{"data":965,"content":966,"nodeType":171},{},[967],{"data":968,"content":969,"nodeType":170},{},[970],{"data":971,"marks":972,"value":973,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Recovery varies between individuals. Some people recover completely from optic neuritis episodes, while others may have lasting changes. Early treatment with steroids can improve the chances of recovery, and many people adapt well to any remaining vision changes. ","Will my vision go back to normal?",{"__typename":915,"sys":976,"panel":978,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":989},{"id":977},"01a3zccAaj5zzK0yDRpTmO",{"json":979},{"data":980,"content":981,"nodeType":171},{},[982],{"data":983,"content":984,"nodeType":170},{},[985],{"data":986,"marks":987,"value":988,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Absolutely. Optometrists can provide ongoing eye care, monitor vision changes, prescribe glasses or contact lenses, and work alongside your MS team. Regular eye tests help track any progression and ensure optimal vision correction. ","Can optometrists help if I already see an MS specialist?",{"__typename":915,"sys":991,"panel":993,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1004},{"id":992},"5rHQXtOrkZAP12nF5eQv6T",{"json":994},{"data":995,"content":996,"nodeType":171},{},[997],{"data":998,"content":999,"nodeType":170},{},[1000],{"data":1001,"marks":1002,"value":1003,"nodeType":124},{},[],"While online vision tests exist, they cannot replace professional eye examinations for MS-related vision problems. MS eye symptoms require comprehensive testing that only qualified optometrists can provide, including optic nerve examination and visual field testing. ","Is there an MS vision test online?",{"__typename":915,"sys":1006,"panel":1008,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1019},{"id":1007},"2F7lHkCeq75gCdDYzThyiI",{"json":1009},{"data":1010,"content":1011,"nodeType":171},{},[1012],{"data":1013,"content":1014,"nodeType":170},{},[1015],{"data":1016,"marks":1017,"value":1018,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Oscillopsia is a condition where stationary objects appear to bounce or move. Optometrists can assess this symptom through eye movement testing and coordination assessments during comprehensive eye examinations. ","What is oscillopsia, and how is it tested?",{"__typename":915,"sys":1021,"panel":1023,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1034},{"id":1022},"7dqoZgZB8QhmXwz2KR1zvU",{"json":1024},{"data":1025,"content":1026,"nodeType":171},{},[1027],{"data":1028,"content":1029,"nodeType":170},{},[1030],{"data":1031,"marks":1032,"value":1033,"nodeType":124},{},[],"People with MS should have regular eye tests, typically annually or as recommended by their healthcare team. More frequent testing may be needed if you're experiencing new symptoms or changes in your vision. ","How often should I have eye tests with MS?",{"__typename":915,"sys":1036,"panel":1038,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1049},{"id":1037},"6zyKRWUlLIfaYsbZIUY4Yi",{"json":1039},{"data":1040,"content":1041,"nodeType":171},{},[1042],{"data":1043,"content":1044,"nodeType":170},{},[1045],{"data":1046,"marks":1047,"value":1048,"nodeType":124},{},[],"Yes, MS-related fatigue can worsen vision problems. When you're tired, existing vision issues like double vision or blurriness may become more noticeable. Managing fatigue through rest and pacing can help maintain better visual function. ","Can fatigue affect my vision with MS?",{"__typename":235,"sys":1051,"title":1053,"body":1054,"theme":1055,"buttonCollection":1056},{"id":1052},"1WGy75Pd8zIB5q5ZpdA2sW","Did you know?","Eye tests are bulk billed to Medicare, so there are no out-of-pocket expenses for you*.","Block Colour",{"items":1057},[1058,1060],{"linkText":1059,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an appointment",{"linkText":1061,"linkUrl":1062,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"See more eye conditions","/eye-health/eye-conditions",{"__typename":1064,"sys":1065,"title":17,"backgroundTheme":179,"authorEntriesCollection":1067},"AuthorContainer",{"id":1066},"5LuIWTzw9V2ukta5TuB3ym",{"items":1068},[1069],{"authorBiography":1070,"authorName":1088,"authorQualification":1089,"authorPhoto":1090},{"json":1071},{"nodeType":171,"data":1072,"content":1073},{},[1074,1081],{"nodeType":170,"data":1075,"content":1076},{},[1077],{"nodeType":124,"value":1078,"marks":1079,"data":1080},"Jonathan has practiced optometry for over 20 years after graduating from the University of Auckland with Honors. His clinical expertise includes Advanced Contact Lenses, Diabetic and Glaucoma Management. Jonathan has worked in both private optometry and ophthalmology practices across NZ, before he took a position at the University of Auckland as a course coordinator and clinical supervisor. ",[],{},{"nodeType":170,"data":1082,"content":1083},{},[1084],{"nodeType":124,"value":1085,"marks":1086,"data":1087},"Jonathan has previously presented at CCLS and NZCO conferences. He has two business degrees and has worked in corporate management settings. Currently he works with Specsavers supporting stores with performance. ",[],{},"Jonathan Payne","B.Optom (Hons), CertOcPharm, PGDipBus, MBA",{"url":1091},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/2BeOKULBlvykl09WNyFnIx/1021048ca5d2dde5996fb75c18364a84/Jonathan_Payne.jpg",{"__typename":1093,"sys":1094,"title":1096,"theme":179,"listType":1097,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1098},"SingleRowAccordion",{"id":1095},"1ty2XrNzvahuGRqR7fXLdq","Sources we've used","Numbered",{"items":1099},[1100,1109,1116,1123,1130,1137],{"__typename":1101,"sys":1102,"citationAuthor":1104,"citationYear":1105,"citationDescription":1106,"citationUrl":1107,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1108},"Citation",{"id":1103},"7agDaf9UTii4t07o4LUgt5","van der Feen, F. E. et al.",2022,"‘Recognizing visual complaints in people with multiple sclerosis’, eBioMedicine,","https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211034821006957","2025-08-17T00:00:00.000Z",{"__typename":1101,"sys":1110,"citationAuthor":1112,"citationYear":1113,"citationDescription":1114,"citationUrl":1115,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1108},{"id":1111},"5MW6INcUTJkWUWWgwUCKCT","Balcer, L. J. ",2014,"‘Vision and vision‑related outcome measures in multiple sclerosis’, Multiple Sclerosis Journal,","https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25433914/",{"__typename":1101,"sys":1117,"citationAuthor":1119,"citationYear":1120,"citationDescription":1121,"citationUrl":1122,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1108},{"id":1118},"DdelHyrdusuRdv5Qj06EN","Kale, N.",2016," ‘Optic neuritis as an early sign of multiple sclerosis’, Journal of Neuro-Ophthalmology,","https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5398757/",{"__typename":1101,"sys":1124,"citationAuthor":1126,"citationYear":1127,"citationDescription":1128,"citationUrl":1129,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1108},{"id":1125},"1nmwz2k8ONbrPuTI4Z9bPk","Tong, B. et al.",2025,"‘Exploring the mechanisms underlying optic neuritis in multiple sclerosis’, Journal of Translational Medicine, ","https://translational-medicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12967-025-06105-1",{"__typename":1101,"sys":1131,"citationAuthor":1133,"citationYear":1134,"citationDescription":1135,"citationUrl":1136,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1108},{"id":1132},"o1HGm47DmSiWBuCe6KC6E","Hoff, J. M. ",2019,"‘Visual dysfunction in multiple sclerosis’, Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening,","https://tidsskriftet.no/en/2019/08/klinisk-oversikt/visual-dysfunction-multiple-sclerosis",{"__typename":1101,"sys":1138,"citationAuthor":1140,"citationYear":1141,"citationDescription":1142,"citationUrl":1143,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1108},{"id":1139},"2t49vRZxG2vUrNAgafgVLE","Self",2024,"‘7 M.S. symptoms to have on your radar’, Self,","https://www.self.com/story/multiple-scerosis-symptoms",{"__typename":1145,"sys":1146,"title":1148,"body":17,"backgroundTheme":179,"actionCardEntriesCollection":1149},"ActionCardBanner",{"id":1147},"4B1jbqghJNAiamx8wh5lYr","Find out more",{"items":1150},[1151,1158,1166],{"title":1152,"body":1153,"imageAltText":1154,"linkText":1155,"linkUrl":1156,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1157},"Why do I need an eye test?","Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.","A man undergoes an eye exam, looking into a slit lamp while an eye care professional examines his eye.","Check your vision","/eye-tests/do-i-need-an-eye-test",{"url":187},{"title":1159,"body":1160,"imageAltText":1161,"linkText":1162,"linkUrl":1163,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1164},"Your store visit explained","At Specsavers we are focused on caring for your eyes and giving you the best possible vision.","A optometrist operates an eye examination machine while an older man sits in front of it.","What to expect in-store","/eye-tests/your-store-visit-explained",{"url":1165},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/6QwhITwthLzuD6pL1VvWJi/ffd60b36927947fd2f69c9b209caa785/eye-health_storevisit-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1167,"body":1168,"imageAltText":1169,"linkText":1170,"linkUrl":1171,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1172},"More on eye tests","An eye test is not just about getting glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.","A friendly optometrist giving advice to a patient in the test room.","All about eye tests","/eye-tests",{"url":1173},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/5klEt6jTY53XMRkReMeHt9/47f0f0e423a6f56d34cbcf07210ee0b1/eye-health_eyetestinfo-banner-545x273.webp",{"__typename":1093,"sys":1175,"title":1177,"theme":911,"listType":1178,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1179},{"id":1176},"3BvnafBbHG7FFQlCN4OxeH","Terms & Conditions","Bullet",{"items":1180},[1181],{"__typename":1182,"body":1183},"TermsAndConditions",{"json":1184},{"data":1185,"content":1186,"nodeType":171},{},[1187],{"data":1188,"content":1189,"nodeType":170},{},[1190],{"data":1191,"marks":1192,"value":1193,"nodeType":124},{},[],"* Listed on a valid Medicare card without Optometry restrictions.",[17,17,17],1780664689237]