Introduction

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO), also known as Devic's disease, is a rare neurological condition.

Neurological conditions are caused by disease or damage to the brain, spinal cord or nerves.

NMO most commonly affects the optic nerves and spinal cord, which can lead to optic neuritis and transverse myelitis (see below).

Some people may only experience optic neuritis or myelitis but may have the aquaporin-4 antibody (also see below). In such cases, a person is said to have an NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

Each person with NMO will experience different symptoms and require individually tailored care and support.

Some of the main symptoms of NMO include:

  • muscle weakness reduced strength in one or more muscles that can affect mobility
  • impaired eyesight
  • nerve pain which can be a sharp, burning, shooting or numbing pain
  • spasms and increased muscle tone from nerve damage that affects muscle control
  • bladder, bowel and sexual problems

NMO UK has more information about the symptoms of NMO .

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 23 Jun 2016