Papilloedema

Overview

Papilloedema is the swelling of the optic disc (the point where the optic nerve enters the eye), caused by raised pressure inside the skull — known as intracranial pressure (ICP). It is not a condition in itself but a warning sign of an underlying problem, such as a brain tumour, venous sinus thrombosis or idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury, our consultant-led team offers urgent neurological review, MRI brain imaging, visual function testing and ongoing management to identify the cause and protect your long-term vision and brain health.

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Why Prompt Assessment Matters

• Protects vision from long-term damage
• Detects serious underlying causes, such as tumours or cerebral venous disease
• Prevents neurological complications, including stroke or seizures
• Supports early treatment for reversible conditions like IIH
• Provides reassurance when benign causes are confirmed

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Symptoms You Might Notice

• Blurred or double vision, especially when changing position
• Brief visual blackouts (transient visual obscurations)
• Headache, often worse in the morning or when lying down
• Nausea, vomiting or neck stiffness
• “Whooshing” sound in the ears (pulsatile tinnitus)
• Unsteady gait or trouble concentrating

In some cases, papilloedema is picked up during a routine eye exam before symptoms are obvious.

Call 999 immediately if symptoms include confusion, seizures, limb weakness or sudden visual loss.

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Common Causes And Risk Factors

• Brain tumour or mass
• Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
• Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (especially in younger women)
• Severe high blood pressure (hypertensive crisis)
• Meningitis or encephalitis
• Medication side effects (e.g. vitamin A, tetracyclines)
• Obesity and obstructive sleep apnoea

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When To Seek Medical Advice

Call 01295 252 281 if you:

• Have been told you have papilloedema by your optician or GP
• Are experiencing unexplained visual changes or persistent headaches
• Have had a recent MRI or eye exam raising concern for raised intracranial pressure
• Want a second opinion or further investigations arranged privately and promptly

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How We Diagnose And Monitor Papilloedema

1. Consultant Neurology Review – symptom review, medication check and neurological exam in our Neurology Service.
2. On-Site MRI Brain Scan – in our Imaging Centre, to assess for structural causes like mass lesions or venous sinus thrombosis.
3. Ophthalmological Assessment – visual acuity, peripheral fields and optic nerve imaging arranged with local ophthalmology partners when needed.
4. Blood Testing – full blood count, inflammatory markers, thyroid function, and vitamin A levels via our Blood-Testing Service.
5. Blood Pressure & BMI Review – through our Private GP Service, especially in suspected IIH or hypertensive urgency.
6. Structured Follow-Up – repeat MRI or eye assessments based on clinical progress and treatment response.

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Treatment And Ongoing Support

Treating The Underlying Cause

• IIH: weight management, diuretics (e.g. acetazolamide), and lifestyle advice
• Venous sinus thrombosis: anticoagulation and risk-factor management
• Mass lesions: urgent referral to neurosurgery when necessary
• Infections or inflammatory causes: antibiotics, antivirals or immunosuppressants based on diagnosis

Vision Protection & Monitoring

• Coordination with ophthalmologists for optic nerve checks and visual field testing
• Ongoing neurological review to monitor for relapse or new symptoms

Supportive Care

• Nutritional support through our Dietetic Team for weight loss and vitamin balance
• Sleep apnoea screening and management, when relevant
• Blood pressure control and cardiovascular risk reduction to prevent stroke

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Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital?

• Consultant-led neurology and imaging assessments with minimal wait times
• On-site MRI scanning and blood testing for rapid diagnosis
• Seamless coordination with ophthalmologists and neurosurgical units
• Personalised outpatient plans to avoid unnecessary hospital stays
• Calm, private environment with free parking and flexible appointments

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can papilloedema be reversed?
Yes — if the cause is diagnosed and treated promptly, vision often returns to normal. Long-term swelling can cause permanent damage, so early action is essential.

Is this the same as optic neuritis?
No — optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve itself and usually affects one eye. Papilloedema is a swelling caused by pressure and typically affects both eyes.

Will I need a lumbar puncture?
Sometimes — especially in cases of suspected idiopathic intracranial hypertension. We can arrange this privately or coordinate with NHS services when needed.

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Protect Your Vision And Brain Health

Call 01295 252 281 or enquire online to book a private consultation for papilloedema and fast-track your investigations and treatment.