Uveitis refers generally to a range of conditions that cause inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, the uvea, and surrounding tissues. It can be painful! The eye or eyes may be red, and vision may be cloudy. It can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection, an injury to the eye or some underlying disease.

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Uveitis can cause swelling and damage to the eye and untreated can cause vision loss in one or sometimes both eyes.

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Symptoms

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• General vision problems, including blurred or cloudy vision

• Floaters, spots in the eye that look like transparent bubbles

• Eye pain and redness

• Photophobia, an abnormal sensitivity to light

• Headaches

• A small pupil

• Alteration of the color of the iris

 

When visiting the Annan Retina Eye Center, we will ask about signs, symptoms, and general medical history. If another condition appears to underlie the uveitis, we will refer you to a specialist to ensure that your condition receives proper treatment.

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Treatments

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Your eye will be examined using a special slit lamp. When the light hits the inside of the eye, it can determine whether that area is clear or foggy. If there is inflammation in the iris, you may feel some pain when the pupil contracts, which is when the light hits it.

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If uveitis is present, white blood cells and protein in the eye fluid can be seen through the microscope.

If treatment is administered promptly then you will usually recover. Without appropriate treatment there is a risk of cataracts, glaucoma, band keratopathy, retinal edema, and permanent vision loss.

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Other forms of treatment

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• Antibiotics or antiviral medication will be used to fight infection.

• Corticosteroid medications are sometimes given as well, in the form of eye drops.

• Immunosuppressants in severe cases.

• Mydriatic eye drops to help with eye pain.

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