What are the first symptoms of LHON?
LHON onset begins with a sudden, painless blurriness in one eye, particularly in the central vision.
The second eye usually begins to experience similar symptoms within weeks to months.
Vision loss is usually the only symptom of LHON.
LHON is caused by a mitochondrial mutation that can be identified by genetic testing. Not all who carry a LHON mutation will lose central vision. Exposure to smoke and alcohol can increase the risk of vision loss in individuals carrying a LHON mutation.