Final answer:
Optic neuritis is characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve, resulting in vision loss or other visual disturbances. Swelling related to meningitis can push on the optic nerve due to its proximity to the meninges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Optic neuritis is characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve, which can result in vision loss or other visual disturbances. It typically presents with symptoms such as blurred vision, eye pain, and loss of color vision. A common cause of optic neuritis is multiple sclerosis, but it can also be caused by infections or autoimmune disorders.
Swelling related to meningitis can push on the optic nerve because the optic nerve is located close to the meninges, which are the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. When there is inflammation in the meninges, it can affect the nearby optic nerve and lead to symptoms of optic neuritis.