Introduction
Inflammation of the eyes can manifest as uveitis. It has an impact on the uvea, the middle layer of tissue in the eye wall. Warning signs of uveitis frequently appear unexpectedly and worsen rapidly. These include blurred vision, discomfort, and redness in the eyes. The illness can affect people of all ages, including children, and can impair one or both eyes.
An autoimmune or inflammatory condition, an accident, or an infection may bring on uveitis. Frequently, it is impossible to pinpoint the cause. Serious uveitis can result in irreversible visual loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid issues and protect your vision.
Signs and Symptoms
The following are possible indications, symptoms, and traits of uveitis:
1. Redness of the eyes.
2. Eye discomfort.
3. Sensitivity to light.
4. Visual impairment.
5. Spots in your fields of vision that are dark and floats (floaters).
6. Reduced vision.
Though they might often develop gradually, symptoms can sometimes appear unexpectedly and worsen rapidly. One or both eyes may be affected. Sometimes, there are no symptoms, and a routine eye check reveals signs of uveitis.
The middle layer of tissue in the eye’s wall is called the uvea. It is made up of the choroid, ciliary body, and iris. The white portion of the eye, known as the sclera, and the coloured portion, known as the iris, is visible when you gaze in the mirror.
The component or sections of the eye that are inflamed determine the type of uveitis you have:
- The ciliary body and the inside of the front of your eye, between the cornea and the iris, are both impacted by anterior uveitis. It is the most prevalent kind of uveitis, also known as iritis.
- The retina, blood vessels directly behind the lens (pars plana), and the gel in the middle of the eye (vitreous) are all impacted by intermediate uveitis.
- The retina or choroid, two layers on the inside of the rear of your eye, is impacted by posterior uveitis.
- From the front to the rear of your eye, all layers of the uvea become inflamed when you have panuveitis.
Causes
The exact etiology of uveitis is unknown in roughly half of cases, and the condition may be classified as an autoimmune illness that solely affects one or more eyes.
One of the following could be the cause if one can be identified:
- An inflammatory or autoimmune condition, like Crohn’s Disease or systemic lupus erythematosus.
- Back discomfort may result from ankylosing spondylitis; uveitis is one of the most frequent side effects of ankylosing spondylitis.
- An infection, such as tuberculosis, herpes zoster, syphilis, toxoplasmosis, or cat scratch disease.
- Adverse effect of medication.
- Eye damage or surgery.
- On rare occasions, an eye malignancy, such as lymphoma.
Risk Factors
Uveitis may be more common in people with specific gene alterations. Smoking cigarettes has been linked to more challenging-to-manage uveitis.
Diagnosis
An ophthalmologist will probably perform a comprehensive eye examination and take a detailed medical history when you visit them.
The following are typically included in the eye exam:
- Evaluation of your eyesight: including how your pupils react to light and whether you often wear glasses.
- Tonometry: An intraocular pressure (IOP) test monitors the pressure inside your eye. For this examination, numbing eye drops may be utilised.
- A slit-lamp analysis: A slit lamp is a type of microscope that shines a bright line of light in front of your eye, magnifying it. To find microscopic inflammatory cells in the front of the eye, this examination is required.
- Ophthalmology: This examination, sometimes called a funduscopy, uses eye drops to dilate the pupil and then shines a strong light into the eye to look at the back of the eye.
Treatment
Treatment for uveitis may concentrate on the underlying condition if it is the cause. The treatment is typically the same as long as the underlying cause of uveitis is not contagious. Treatment aims to reduce ocular swelling and, if present, swelling in other areas of the body. In certain situations, months or even years of treatment may be required. There are numerous alternatives for treatment.
Medication
- Inflammatory-reducing medications
- Medications that reduce spasms.
- Medications that fight viruses or bacteria.
- Medications that damage cells or have an impact on the immune system.
Procedures Such as Surgery
- Vitrectomy
- An implant that releases medication.
LumiLab guides, webpages, and articles discussing optometry and ophthalmology are intended only for educational and informative purposes and do not serve as medical or professional advice.
The information presented, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other material, is for informational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician, optician, or other health care professional if you have questions about your eye health or vision.
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