Neuromyelitis optica(NMO) is an autoimmune disease that starts in thecentral nervous system.
It affects the brain and spinal cord.
You may also hear it called Devic disease or neuromyelitis optical spectrum disorder.
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This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and risks of untreated symptoms of NMO.
It also covers diagnosis, treatment, and NMO resources and support.
Its specific target ismyelin, a substance that insulates the nerves.
The average age of onset for NMO is 41 years old.
It’s also more common among females.
Both of these characteristics are similar to otherautoimmune diseases.
NMO Symptoms
Many possible symptoms can occur from the inflammation and damage resulting from NMO.
Neuromyelitis Optica vs.
Multiple Sclerosis
NMO is often confused withmultiple sclerosis(MS); however, they are separate conditions.
As the attacks caused are unpredictable, untreated NMO can raise your risk for further damage to the body.
The most common reason for this isrespiratory failure.
Neuromyelitis optica progresses at different rates in each individual.
When you have NMO, you’ll have attacks, also called relapses.
These may occur days, weeks, or months apart.
New damage can occur from each relapse.
Disabilities can occur over time with repeated relapses.
Then, they combine the blood cells with a replacement solution and return them to the body.
Although there is no cure, treatment options are available to help manage your symptoms.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.Neuromyelitis optica.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Neuromyelitis optica.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Neuromyelitis optica.
2021 May; 8(3): e985.
doi:10.1212/NXI.0000000000000985
National Multiple Sclerosis Society.Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).
NHS.Neuromyelitis optica (NMO).
2019;19(2):169-176. doi:10.7861/clinmedicine.19-2-169
National Organization for Rare Disorders.Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.
