The optic nerve sits at the back of your eye, collecting visual information to send to the brain. Optic neuritis occurs when you have inflammation of the nerve fibers that make up your optic nerve. Doctors may prescribe steroid medications or recommend allowing the inflammation to resolve without treatment. If you want to try using supplements, such as fish oil to help your condition, you should first talk with your doctor about the possible risks and benefits.
Cause
Optic neuritis may result from your immune system attacking the sheath that covers your optic nerve, an occurrence that typically occurs in young adults, reports MayoClinic.com. Researchers do not know why this occurs, but some cases may stem from multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis or infections such as Lyme disease. Diseases such as diabetes may increase your risk for optic neuritis, as well as certain medications. Your doctor can help you determine if you take a medication or have a condition that will put you in a high risk category for optic neuritis.
Fish Oil
Fish oil contains omega-3, an essential fatty acid that your body uses for growth and function. This nutrient may also help reduce inflammation, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. In theory, the omega-3 found in fish oil could have an anti-inflammatory effect on optic neuritis. However, researchers have not determined that fish oil or other sources of omega-3 offers any benefits in the treatment or prevention of optic neuritis. If you and your doctor decide that you should try fish oil for inflammation, your doctor will help you determine the dose you should take each day.
Additional Sources
You can find the omega-3 fatty acids in other sources in addition to fish oil. Flaxseed oil capsules also contain omega-3. Certain foods also provide this nutrient. You can eat fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel. Plant-based sources include ground flaxseed, pumpkin seeds and walnuts. If you do not want to take fish oil you can talk with your doctor to compare these additional options with fish oil. Your doctor can help you determine the best source of omega-3.
Considerations
Do not take fish oil without first consulting with your physician. She will evaluate your condition and help you weigh benefits and risks in using fish oil for your eye condition. If you take medication to thin your blood, your doctor may not recommend that you use fish oil or any other source of omega-3 since this nutrient may intensify the effects of the medication and increase your risk for bleeding.
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