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Understanding and Treating Uveitis (Iritis): A Beginner's Guide

Uveitis, also known as iritis, is an eye condition characterized by inflammation, redness, pain, and swelling in one or both eyes. While it can lead to vision loss if left untreated, prompt medical attention and proper treatment can help manage symptoms and protect your eyesight.

What is Uveitis?

Uveitis is named after the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris (the colored part). Inflammation can also affect other parts of the eye, such as the lens or retina. Adults between the ages of 20 and 60 are most commonly affected by this condition.

Causes of Uveitis

There are two main types of uveitis:

  1. Infectious uveitis: Caused by bacteria or viruses in the eye.

  2. Noninfectious uveitis: Caused by an eye injury or an underlying health condition, such as:

    • AIDS

    • Behcet's syndrome

    • Shingles

    • Multiple sclerosis

    • Psoriatic arthritis

    • Rheumatoid arthritis

    • Sarcoidosis

    • Tuberculosis

    • Ulcerative colitis

    • Crohn's disease

In some cases, the cause of noninfectious uveitis remains unknown.

Symptoms of Uveitis

Uveitis can affect one or both eyes, and symptoms may appear suddenly. If you experience any of the following, contact an eye doctor immediately:

  • Changes in vision

  • Dark floating spots (floaters)

  • Eye pain

  • Eye redness

  • Light sensitivity

  • Swelling

Diagnosing Uveitis

To diagnose uveitis, an eye doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam and ask about your symptoms and medical history. During the exam, they may:

  • Test your vision

  • Measure eye pressure

  • Dilate your pupils to examine the back of your eye

  • Use a slit lamp exam to assess different parts of your eye

Additional tests, such as blood work or X-rays, may be ordered to check for underlying health conditions associated with uveitis.

Treating Uveitis

Prompt treatment is essential to prevent permanent eye damage and complications like glaucoma or cataracts. Treatment options may include:

  • Steroid eye drops: To reduce inflammation, redness, and pain.

  • Steroid shots or pills: For more severe cases.

  • Atropine eye drops: To dilate the pupil and prevent painful eye spasms, which may cause temporary blurred vision and light sensitivity.

  • Slow-release steroid capsule: Surgically implanted in the eye for long-lasting cases, usually in one eye. This treatment may increase the risk of cataracts or glaucoma.

  • Immunosuppressants: Medications that reduce the body's immune response.

  • Biologics: Drugs that boost the body's natural response to inflammation, typically used when steroids are ineffective.

Work closely with your doctor to monitor any side effects and ensure the best possible outcome.

Managing Uveitis

In addition to following your prescribed treatment plan, be sure to:

  • Keep your doctor informed about any discomfort or vision changes.

  • Treat any underlying health conditions that may be causing your uveitis.

  • Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your eye health.

The outlook for uveitis depends on the underlying cause and how quickly you receive treatment. While some people may experience a single episode, others may have recurring bouts of inflammation. With proper care and management, it is possible to alleviate symptoms, restore vision, and prevent long-term eye damage.

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