Eye inflammation (Uveitis): Signs, triggers, remedies, and further details

Eye inflammation (Uveitis): Signs, causes, remedies, and further details

Eye pain and redness can be a sign of uveitis, a condition that involves inflammation of the uvea - the middle layer of tissue in the wall of the eye. If left untreated, uveitis can lead to permanent vision loss. This inflammation can affect one or both eyes and can take various forms, such as anterior, intermediate, posterior, or panuveitis.

Anterior uveitis affects the front part of the eye and is often referred to as iritis or iridocyclitis. Intermediate uveitis, on the other hand, can be vitritis or pars planitis. Vitritis is an inflammation of the jelly-like part of the eye, while pars planitis is a subtype with no identified underlying cause. Posterior uveitis affects the back of the eye, and panuveitis involves inflammation in all layers of the uvea.

Symptoms of uveitis may include floaters, eye pain and redness, general vision problems, photophobia, and headaches. In some cases, uveitis may develop without noticeable symptoms.

Uveitis can be caused by various factors, such as infections, autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, or injury to the eye. Infections that may increase the risk of uveitis include HIV and AIDS, herpes simplex, brucellosis, shingles, leptospirosis, Lyme disease, syphilis, toxocariasis, toxoplasmosis, tuberculosis, and others. Autoimmune and inflammatory disorders that may contribute to uveitis include psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease, multiple sclerosis, and more.

Injury to the eye, such as trauma, recent surgery, or exposure to chemicals, can also lead to uveitis. Risk factors for uveitis include smoking, low vitamin D levels, certain medications, living with an autoimmune disease, and pregnancy, among others.

Diagnosis of uveitis typically involves an eye exam using a special slit lamp. During the exam, the doctor looks for white blood cells in the anterior chamber or vitreous and other findings such as bumps on the cornea and pupil dilation pain. Depending on the findings, the doctor may refer the patient to a uveitis specialist or rheumatologist for further evaluation and diagnosis of any underlying conditions.

Treatment for uveitis aims to reduce inflammation and prevent complications such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular edema, scar tissue, retinal detachment, and vision loss. Common treatments may include corticosteroid drops, eye drops to widen the pupil and reduce pressure, oral steroids, injected steroids, surgical implants, antivirals, antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and biologic agents.

Up to half of anterior uveitis cases have no identified systemic condition, often being idiopathic and autoimmune. Infectious causes should always be considered, especially in regions where these infections are prevalent. Autoimmune diseases and genetic factors such as HLA-B27 allele play a significant role in many uveitis cases.

In summary, uveitis is a potentially sight-threatening condition caused by various factors. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to minimize the risk of complications and vision loss. Seek medical help if you experience symptoms such as eye pain, redness, or blurred vision.

Uveitis can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Anterior uveitis, also known as iritis or iridocyclitis, affects the front part of the eye.
Intermediate uveitis can present as vitritis or pars planitis, with the latter having no identified underlying cause.
Posterior uveitis affects the back of the eye, whereas panuveitis involves inflammation in all layers of the uvea.
Symptoms of uveitis may include floaters, eye pain and redness, general vision problems, photophobia, and headaches.
Factors that can cause uveitis include infections, autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, or injury to the eye.
Infections contributing to uveitis can include HIV, AIDS, herpes simplex, brucellosis, shingles, leptospirosis, Lyme disease, syphilis, toxocariasis, toxoplasmosis, tuberculosis, and more.
Autoimmune and inflammatory disorders linked to uveitis can include psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease, multiple sclerosis, and others.
Injury to the eye through trauma, recent surgery, or exposure to chemicals can also lead to uveitis.
Risk factors for uveitis can include smoking, low vitamin D levels, certain medications, living with an autoimmune disease, and pregnancy, among others.
The diagnosis of uveitis typically involves a special eye exam using a slit lamp.
Treatment for uveitis aims to reduce inflammation and prevent complications like cataracts, glaucoma, macular edema, scar tissue, retinal detachment, and vision loss.
Up to half of anterior uveitis cases have no identified systemic condition, often being idiopathic and autoimmune.
In cases where antecedent systemic conditions are not evident, infectious causes should still be considered, especially in regions with high infection prevalence.
Autoimmune diseases and genetic factors, such as the HLA-B27 allele, play a significant role in many uveitis cases.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through fitness and exercise, nutrition, skin care, and proper weight management can improve overall health and wellness.
When experiencing symptoms like eye pain, redness, or blurred vision, seeking medical help is essential to prevent potential sight loss and ensure appropriate therapies and treatments.