Uveitis is an eye condition that warrants special attention. Although it is less well known than other vision disorders, it can have serious consequences if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
What is uveitis?
Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye located between the sclera (the white of the eye) and the retina. This area includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. The inflammation can affect part or all of these structures and is classified into several types:
- Anterior uveitis: the most common, affecting the iris.
- Intermediate uveitis: affecting the ciliary body and vitreous.
- Posterior uveitis: affecting the choroid and retina.
- Panuveitis: when the inflammation affects all areas of the uvea.
What are the symptoms?
The signs of uveitis can vary depending on the area affected and the severity, but the most common are:
- Persistent eye redness
- Eye pain or pressure
- Blurred vision
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Appearance of floaters (black spots or specks in the field of vision)
In some cases, uveitis can be silent and cause few symptoms at first, making regular checkups even more important.
What are the causes?
Uveitis does not always have an obvious cause, but it is often linked to:
- Autoimmune diseases: such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or sarcoidosis.
- Infections: viral (herpes, shingles), bacterial (syphilis, tuberculosis), parasitic (toxoplasmosis).
- Eye trauma: after an injury or surgery.
- Idiopathic factors: in many cases, no specific cause is identified.
What are the treatment options?
The treatment of uveitis aims to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications such as glaucoma, cataracts, or irreversible damage to the retina. Options include:
- Corticosteroids: in eye drops, injections, or tablets, depending on severity.
- Mydriatics: to dilate the pupil and reduce pain associated with iris spasms.
- Immunosuppressive or biological drugs: in chronic cases or cases related to an autoimmune disease.
- Antivirals, antibiotics, or antiparasitics: if the infectious origin is confirmed.
When to seek medical attention
Early diagnosis is essential. Any eye redness accompanied by pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light should prompt a prompt visit to an optometrist.
Uveitis is a serious but treatable condition. Prompt and appropriate treatment can protect your vision and prevent irreversible complications. If you have any worrying symptoms, don't wait: make an appointment with your trusted optometrist.
