Recent NMO diagnosis

First symptoms of NMOSD

Last year July 2023 I started vomiting uncontrollably. I wasn't able to keep anything down, even drinking smoothies or shakes proved to be difficult. I eventually visited a local doctor's office and my diagnosis was severe acid reflux. I was prescribed some medication that worked to some degree but I kept vomiting. I then visited the hospital where I was treated using iv drips and some other medications (can't remember what they said). After spending one night, the symptoms disappeared and I was able to eat properly about 2 weeks after. My relief did not last long.

In September I started getting really bad headaches mainly on the right side. It was so bad that use of any sort of painkiller was not working. About 2 weeks of pain I then realized that something was off with my vision. I could not see in my right eye and there was a lot of pain on eye movement. I visited the doctor again who could not determine the cause of my symptoms and referred me to an ophthalmologist.

NMOSD diagnosis

Upon examination of my eye I was diagnosed with optic neuritis and was told there is a lot of swelling behind the eye. I was then referred again to a neurologist. I was admitted to the hospital where I was given steroids through an IV, did multiple blood tests, MRI scans, and a spinal tap (to rule out MS). The blood tests showed I tested positive for the APQ4 antibodies. I was discharged a week later and have been on steroids since then. My vision has improved since then from not seeing anything at all to now seeing black and white.

NMOSD treatment

I am due to start rituximab infusions this year (August 2024) however due to my recent diagnosis for latent TB, I am debating if to proceed. I did complete the 6 month isoniazid treatment however, I am still a bit hesitant to proceed with the rituximab.

Being diagnosed with this disease at 26, has been an emotional experience. No one fully understands and the frequent headaches are always a trigger of whether my vision is going to disappear completely. I still work however due to my diagnosis and frequent doctor appointments I fear that any plans for promotion to further my career is almost non-existent.