Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION)

Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION) is a type of optic nerve eye stroke.
It occurs when blood flow to the front of the optic nerve is reduced or blocked, leading to sudden vision loss.

Dr. Andy Rosenfarb explains:

“With NAION, the nerve doesn’t get enough oxygen. Some of those nerve cells die, but others just go dormant. Our job is to wake those dormant cells back up and restore function.”

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What is NAION?

• NAION is the most common optic nerve stroke.
• It is usually caused by poor circulation to the optic nerve head (the front of the optic nerve).
• Unlike AION, NAION is not linked to inflammation.

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Symptoms of NAION

• Sudden painless vision loss in one eye
• Loss of peripheral or side vision
• Dimming or blurring of vision
• Trouble seeing in low-light conditions

Often, patients notice vision changes upon waking, which may be linked to nighttime blood pressure dips or sleep apnea.

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Causes & Risk Factors

NAION is associated with vascular and structural factors:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Sleep apnea
• Smoking
• “Crowded” optic nerve head (structural risk factor)

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Conventional Medicine’s Approach

There are currently no widely accepted drug or surgical treatments for NAION. Most patients are told to monitor their condition and manage systemic risk factors.

This “wait and see” approach can feel discouraging, but holistic therapies offer more proactive support.

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Holistic & Functional Treatments

At the Eye Health Institute, Dr. Rosenfarb uses integrated therapies to improve blood flow, oxygenation, and nerve repair.

Ophthalmic Acupuncture

Specialized acupuncture improves microcirculation and helps reduce optic nerve stress.

Alternating Current Microstimulation (ACS-3000)

Gentle stimulation encourages optic nerve repair and supports neuroplasticity.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Increases oxygen delivery to nerve cells that are suffocating.

“Hyperbaric oxygen can get oxygen into the optic nerve even when blood flow is impaired.”

Low-Level Laser Therapy

Helps reduce oxidative stress and stimulate mitochondrial repair.

Nutrition & Supplements

Enzymes, antioxidants, omega-3 DHA, and targeted herbs support vascular and nerve health.

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Why Early Intervention Matters

Dr. Rosenfarb emphasizes:

“The sooner we treat NAION, the better chance we have to restore dormant optic nerve cells. If we wait too long, those cells may never come back.”

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Patient Story

A patient in her late 50s came in after losing peripheral vision in her right eye. Her neurologist told her nothing could be done. After starting acupuncture, microstimulation, and supplements within six weeks of onset, she recovered enough vision to drive again — something she thought was lost forever.

This case highlights the potential for recovery when proactive care is started early.

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Next Steps for NAION Patients

• Treat NAION as an urgent condition — don’t wait to seek care.
• Learn about treatment modalities that support optic nerve health.
• Schedule a Telehealth consultation or consider in-office intensives at the Eye Health Institute.

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