Papilledema is characterized as the swelling of the optic nerve. This is the point where the option nerve joins the eye, where the swelling causes a fluid pressure within the patient’s skull or what is known as the intracranial pressure. This swelling can be due to an inflammatory illness or infection.

A diagnosis of papilledema can be initially achieved by conducting a visual examination of the eye using an ophthalmoscope, which illuminates the retina and provide a good view for possible swelling or inflammation.

Treatment of papilledema is normally aimed at treating the underlying disorder. Typically, diuretic drugs complemented with a weight loss program may be enough to reduce the production of the cerebrospinal fluid. Corticosteroids have also been known to be useful for treating the inflammation.

The symptoms of papilledema include headaches, nausea and vomiting, double vision, as well as the blurring, flickering or graying of the vision.

Papilledema is caused by a significant increase in the pressure of the fluid. This condition may have some underlying causes that could include any of the following: brain tumor, craniosynostosis, intracranial infection, abscess, head injury or hydrocephalus.