TikTok star Jehane Thomas passes away at 30 after suffering severe migraines, optic neuritis diagnosis

In another post, she wrote, “I’m currently waiting for a blood patch to help stop this pressure in my head and I was surprised with a visit from my boys to give me the energy boost I needed to get through another day. Once it’s done, I’ll have another 24 hours here on bed rest then it’s hopefully time to go home and recover”.

 

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A post shared by Jehane Thomas (@jehane_x)

In her last post before her death, Thomas had opened up about a challenging week. “6 days admitted into hospital and I’m finally home with my boys. It’s been a really challenging week, not just physically but mentally. I’ve missed these two so much and feel like they’ve both grown up so much whilst I’ve been away.”

She added, “I may be home but I’m still struggling with these migraines as nothing was really done to help them after a whole week of being there and I’d rather self medicate at home with these around me then me left in a bed on my own all day and night so I may not be fixed but I’m not giving in”.

 

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A post shared by Jehane Thomas (@jehane_x)

While the exact cause of Thomas’ death is yet to be ascertained, we reached out to experts to know more about optic neuritis.

What is Optic Neuritis?

Optic neuritis is a condition that involves inflammation of the optic nerve and can cause temporary vision loss, pain, and abnormal colour vision. “According to clinical research, individuals with a history of migraines may be at an increased risk of developing optic neuritis. Although the condition itself is not life-threatening, in some cases, optic neuritis can be a symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) which, if left untreated, can lead to permanent nerve damage and disability,” Dr Nikhil Sardar, senior consultant, ophthalmology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, told indianexpress.com.

 

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A post shared by Jehane Thomas (@jehane_x)

Agreeing, Dr Syed Osman, Consultant-Neurology, CARE Hospitals, Hi-Tec City, Hyderabad added that MS is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, and can cause a range of symptoms, including optic neuritis.

“While it is not typically a fatal condition, it is important for individuals experiencing symptoms of optic neuritis to seek medical attention promptly to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which is associated with a more rapid recovery of vision. Intravenous methylprednisolone is given for severe vision loss. individuals with acute optic neuritis and two or more white matter lesions are considered to have a clinically isolated syndrome of MS for which disease-modifying therapy is given,” he added.

When to be concerned?

If you experience sudden vision loss or blurring, pain in the eye that worsens with eye movement, abnormal colour vision, flashing lights or flickering vision, and a dimming of vision, it is recommended to consult an ophthalmologist immediately. “Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent potential complications and improve the chances of a full recovery,” said Dr Sardar.

Prevention

In order to prevent optic neuritis, Dr Sardar recommended “maintaining a healthy lifestyle, following a balanced, nutritious diet, and engaging in regular exercise”.

“Additionally, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption can also help reduce the risk of the condition,” added Dr Sardar.

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