Neuromyelitis optica (NMO)
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare condition that affects the spinal cord and the optic nerves. It can cause a range of symptoms. It can affect people of any age, but it's more common in women than men. See a GP if you have any symptoms.
Symptoms of neuromyelitis optica (NMO)
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is also known as Devic's disease.
Each person will experience different symptoms, which can range from mild to severe.
In many people with NMO, the spinal cord becomes swollen and irritated (inflamed). This is called transverse myelitis.
The optic nerve from the eye to the brain can also become inflamed – a condition called optic neuritis.
Some people may only experience transverse myelitis or optic neuritis but, if they have a specific antibody associated with NMO (AQP4) in their blood, they will be said to have NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD).
Symptoms of optic neuritis and transverse myelitis include:
- eye pain
- loss of vision
- colours appearing faded or less vivid
- weakness in the arms and legs
- pain in the arms or legs – described as sharp, burning, shooting or numbing – and increased sensitivity to cold and heat
- tight and painful muscle spasms in the arms and legs
- bladder, bowel and sexual problems
NMO can be one-off or relapsing.
Some people may only have one attack of optic neuritis or transverse myelitis, with good recovery and no further relapses for a long time.
But in very severe cases, more attacks can follow.
A relapse can take from several hours up to days to develop.
These attacks can be unpredictable and it's not understood what triggers them.
When to get medical help
See you GP if you have any of the above symptoms.
Your GP will refer you to a neurologist (specialist in diseases of the nerves) for further testing to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any other conditions with similar symptoms, such as multiple sclerosis.
Treatments for NMO
There's no cure for NMO, but treatments can help to ease symptoms, prevent future relapses and slow down the progression of the disease.
You may be prescribed medication to reduce the inflammation, suppressing your immune system and easing your symptoms. These may include steroids or a type of drug called a biological.
Rehabilitation techniques, such as physiotherapy, can also help if you have problems with your mobility.
Therapies and support groups are available.
Causes
NMO is an autoimmune disorder. This means the body's immune system reacts abnormally and attacks the body's healthy tissues, causing the symptoms of NMO.
NMO is usually not inherited, but some people with NMO may have a history of autoimmune disorders in the family and may have another autoimmune condition themselves.
Driving
Optic neuritis may affect your ability to drive.
You have a legal obligation to tell the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) about any medical condition that could have an effect on your driving.
Support
NMO can have a significant impact, but support is available to help you have the best possible quality of life.
It might help to speak to others who have the same condition or to connect with a charity.
More useful links
The information on this page has been adapted from original content from the NHS website.
For further information see terms and conditions.