1. Get Treated As Soon As Possible
Although the nerve fibers destroyed during the process of atrophy can never be rebuilt (unless and until scientists develop a stem-cell-like therapy to regenerate such tissue), you can halt further damage to the nerve and treat any underlying conditions. For instance, if your optic atrophy has been caused by toxic optic neuropathy which you got from exposing yourself to a toxic agent in your environment (like cigarette smoke), you can theoretically remove that toxic agent and "stop the clock" on the nerve damage.
In other words, the faster you're able to identify the causative agent of nerve degradation, the better your chances are of avoiding too much permanent damage and maintaining enough visual acuity to live a normal life.
2. Manage the Symptoms You Have
Once your optic nerve has atrophied, you may be left with a permanently weakened sense of sight. You can compensate for this deficit by enhancing your other senses, learning to read Braille, joining support groups for people with ONA and generally developing a life around the new reality of your abilities. You may also want to go to psychotherapy to talk about your feelings about the condition. It's not uncommon for people with optic nerve atrophy to feel isolated, scared and frustrated. By going to talk therapy and potentially getting on medication, you can get into a better state of mind and make smarter decisions about how to manage the condition.
3. Learn All You Can about Optic Nerve Atrophy and Stay on Your Ophthalmologist's Recommended Course of Treatment
Your ophthalmologist may recommend a strict diet to promote vision health, as well as medications to treat underlying conditions (such as glaucoma or syphilis) and other lifestyle changes. Don't make decisions about your eye health in a vacuum. Rely on the expertise of the doctors who become familiar with your etiology. Don't be afraid to ask questions about your condition and your limits.
