Causes and risk factors
Cranial mononeuropathy III – diabetic type is caused due to damage to the third cranial nerve. It is one of the nerves which controls the eye movements. This nerve is also called as oculomotor nerve. This condition usually occurs in combination with diabetic neuropathy. Other causes include mononeuritis multiplex, infarction of the nerve, pressure on the nerve.
Clinical presentation
Patient presents with pain in the head or behind the eye, and double vision. There is drooping of one eyelid [ptosis]. There is enlarged pupil that reacts poorly to light.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the ophthalmologist helps in diagnosis. Blood tests are done for BSL. MRI or CT scan of brain is advised. Lumbar puncture [spinal tap] may be required. Tests such as cerebral angiogram, CT angiogram, MR angiogram are recommended to check the blood vessels in the brain. An advice of neuro-ophthalmologist may be sought.
Treatment
No specific treatment is available as the disorder is self-limiting most of the times. Controlling blood sugar levels is advised. Wearing an eye patch or glasses with prisms to reduce double vision will help in managing the condition. Medicines like analgesics may be prescribed. Surgery to correct eyes that are not aligned or eyelid drooping may be required.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating cranial mononeuropathy III – diabetic type. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating cranial mononeuropathy III – diabetic type.
