Uveitis

Overview

Uveitis is a form of eye inflammation that affects the middle layer of tissue in the eye wall (uvea). It can cause sudden symptoms such as eye redness, pain, and blurred vision, and can affect people of all ages, even children. Possible causes of uveitis include infection, injury, or an autoimmune or inflammatory disease. Uveitis can be serious and lead to permanent vision loss, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and preserve vision.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of uveitis may include eye redness, pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and dark, floating spots in your field of vision (floaters). Other symptoms may include decreased vision, eye pain, discomfort, or achiness in the affected eye, and sensitivity to light. These symptoms may occur suddenly and get worse quickly, affecting one or both eyes. In some cases, there may be no symptoms, and signs of uveitis are observed on a routine eye exam. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications and preserve your vision.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing uveitis include changes in certain genes, cigarette smoking, and a history of certain medical conditions such as cat-scratch disease, herpes zoster, syphilis, toxoplasmosis, or tuberculosis.

Development

The various types of uveitis, including anterior uveitis, intermediate uveitis, posterior uveitis, and panuveitis, develop due to inflammation in different layers of the uvea, which is the middle layer of tissue in the eye wall. Anterior uveitis, also known as iritis, affects the inside of the front of the eye and the ciliary body. Intermediate uveitis affects the retina and blood vessels just behind the lens, as well as the gel in the center of the eye. Posterior uveitis affects a layer on the inside of the back of the eye, either the retina or the choroid. Panuveitis occurs when all layers of the uvea are inflamed, from the front to the back of the eye. The causes of uveitis can be infection, injury, autoimmune or inflammatory disease, or in some cases, no specific cause can be identified. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and preserve vision.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Diagnosis

To diagnose uveitis, an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) will conduct a comprehensive eye exam and gather a thorough health history. The examination typically includes assessment of vision, tonometry (measuring intraocular pressure), a slit-lamp examination, and ophthalmoscopy. The doctor may also recommend color photography of the inside of the eye (retina). Additional tests may be performed if an underlying disease or condition is suspected.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Complications of untreated uveitis can include retinal swelling (macular edema), retinal scarring, glaucoma, cataracts, optic nerve damage, retinal detachment, and permanent vision loss.

Home Remedies

Treatment

Treatment for uveitis generally aims to reduce inflammation, control spasms, fight infection, and manage any underlying condition that may be causing the inflammation. Treatment options may include:

1. Topical medications: Eye drops containing corticosteroids, such as prednisolone acetate, are often prescribed to reduce inflammation in the eye. Dilating eye drops may also be used to relieve pain and protect against complications.
2. Systemic medications: Oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, or other medications may be prescribed if the uveitis is severe or not responding to topical treatments.
3. Antibiotics or antiviral medications: If an infection is causing the uveitis, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed, along with or without corticosteroids, to manage the infection.
4. Treatment of underlying conditions: If an underlying condition is identified as the cause of uveitis, treatment will focus on addressing that specific condition. The goal of treatment is to control inflammation, relieve pain, and preserve vision. Treatment may need to be continued for months to years, even if a specific cause is not identified. Consult an eye specialist, such as an optometrist or an ophthalmologist, for a complete evaluation and appropriate treatment plan.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for uveitis, you should:

1. Make a list of your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment, and note when they began.
2. Compile key personal information, such as recent trauma or injury and your family medical history, including any family members with autoimmune disorders.
3. Create a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you're currently taking, including doses.
4. Prepare a set of questions to ask your doctor, such as the cause of your eye problems, needed tests, and potential treatment options.
5. Bring a family member or friend to your appointment for support and to help remember important information. Remember to be honest and thorough when discussing your symptoms and medical history with your doctor. This will help ensure that you receive the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for your uveitis.