Uveitis is a condition that causes swelling and inflammation to your uvea, which consists of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. This condition can also reduce vision and can lead to severe vision loss. It can occur in patients of all ages, primarily from 20-50. The causes of uveitis may be an injury, infection, or autoimmune disease. The onset of symptoms can occur suddenly and can lead to complications to the eye tissue and vision. It is important to visit your ophthalmologist when you notice any symptoms of redness, eye pain, and vision change. Uveitis can affect one or both eyes. 

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Causes

Uveitis is caused by inflammation inside the eye. This can be from an infection, a bruise, or a foreign toxin entering the eye. 

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Inflammatory diseases such as AIDS, Herpes zoster infection, Kawasaki disease, Multiple sclerosis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriasis, and more are associated with uveitis. The specific cause of uveitis may be difficult the pinpoint and may require workup within other specialties other than ophthalmology. 

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Symptoms

 

Sign of uveitis may include:

- Eye redness

- Eye pain

- Blurry vision

- Light sensitivity (photophobia)

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Treatments

Treatments are targeted to reduce inflammation, pain, and to prevent more tissue damage. An ophthalmologist will prescribe anti-inflammation steroid medication that aims to lower inflammation that can be taken in eye drop form, oral form, or as an injection in or around the eye. Ophthalmologists may also prescribe medications with immunosuppressive agents, such as cyclosporine, that target specific parts of the immune system. Treatment varies based on the type of uveitis present in a patient.

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