VII: Diseases of the eye and adnexa
H46-H48: Disorders of optic nerve and visual pathways
"Disorders of the optic nerve and visual pathways" is a collective term for a variety of conditions which can affect the optic nerve; the nerve that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain, or the routes these signals follow within the brain. The causes of these disorders are varied and can range from injuries and infections, to conditions like glaucoma or multiple sclerosis. Common symptoms include vision loss of varying degrees, which might be sudden or gradual, along with symptoms like seeing flashing lights or floaters. Progression of these disorders also differs depending on the underlying cause, and without proper treatment, most of them will lead to irreversible damage to vision. It is important to have regular eye exams, as they are key in detecting early symptoms and slowing the progress of these conditions. Complete loss of vision or sudden, severe vision changes are considered a medical emergency and require immediate medical attention.
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The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.