What is Uveitis? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Uveitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. The uvea is crucial as it contains many of the eye’s blood vessels. Inflammation in this area can lead to a range of eye problems and, if left untreated, can even cause vision loss. At LJ Eye Institute, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about eye conditions like uveitis, so they can seek timely and effective care.
Understanding the Uvea
To understand uveitis, it’s helpful to know the parts of the uvea:
- Iris: The colored part of your eye.
- Ciliary Body: The ring of muscle behind the iris that helps with focusing and produces fluid within the eye.
- Choroid: The layer between the sclera (white of the eye) and the retina.
Uveitis can affect any of these parts, and it’s classified based on where the inflammation occurs:
Causes of Uveitis
Uveitis can be caused by various factors, and sometimes the exact cause remains unknown. However, some common causes include:
- Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and lupus can be associated with uveitis.
- Infections: Bacterial infections (like syphilis or tuberculosis), viral infections (like herpes simplex or shingles), and parasitic infections (like toxoplasmosis) can lead to uveitis.
- Injuries: Trauma or injury to the eye can sometimes trigger uveitis.
- Inflammatory Conditions: Certain inflammatory diseases, such as sarcoidosis or Behcet’s disease, can cause uveitis.
Symptoms of Uveitis
The symptoms of uveitis can vary depending on the type and severity of the inflammation. Common symptoms include:
- Eye Redness: The eye may appear red or bloodshot.
- Eye Pain: You might experience pain, tenderness, or aching in the eye.
- Light Sensitivity (Photophobia): Bright light can be uncomfortable or painful.
- Blurred Vision: Your vision may become blurry or cloudy.
- Floaters: You may notice small, dark spots or lines that seem to float across your field of vision.
- Decreased Vision: In some cases, uveitis can lead to a decrease in vision.
- Small Pupil: The pupil may appear smaller than usual.
Diagnosis of Uveitis
A thorough eye examination is essential for diagnosing uveitis. At LJ Eye Institute, our experienced ophthalmologists will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:
- Visual Acuity Test: To assess your vision.
- Slit-Lamp Examination: A microscopic examination of the eye’s structures.
- Dilated Eye Examination: Eye drops are used to widen the pupil, allowing for a better view of the inside of the eye.
- Tonometry: To measure the pressure inside the eye.
- Additional Tests: Depending on the suspected cause, blood tests, imaging tests, or fluid samples from the eye may be necessary.
Treatment Options for Uveitis
The treatment for uveitis aims to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and prevent complications. Treatment options may include:
- Corticosteroids: These are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can be given as eye drops, pills, or injections.
- Pupil-Dilating Eye Drops: These drops help to reduce pain and prevent the iris from sticking to the lens.
- Immunosuppressive Medications: In cases of severe or chronic uveitis, medications that suppress the immune system may be necessary.
- Antibiotics, Antivirals, or Antifungal Medications: If the uveitis is caused by an infection, these medications will be used to treat the underlying cause.
- Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be needed to treat complications such as glaucoma, cataracts, or retinal detachment.
Why Choose LJ Eye Institute for Uveitis Care?
LJ Eye Institute in Ambala is a trusted name in eye care, offering expert diagnosis and treatment for uveitis. Here’s why it stands out:
- Experienced Specialists: A team of skilled ophthalmologists with expertise in treating uveitis and related conditions.
- Advanced Diagnostics: Cutting-edge imaging and laboratory tests ensure accurate diagnosis.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored therapies to effectively manage different types of uveitis.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration with rheumatologists and infectious disease specialists for comprehensive care.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with modern technology to provide the best possible treatment.