Overview
Iritis is a type of uveitis, which is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. It is characterized by swelling and irritation in the colored ring around the eye's pupil, known as the iris. Iritis is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, and its exact cause is often unknown.
Types of Iritis
- Anterior uveitis: This is the most common type of iritis, accounting for about 90% of cases. It is characterized by inflammation of the front part of the uvea.
- Posterior uveitis: This type of iritis affects the back part of the uvea and is less common.
- Panuveitis: This type of iritis affects the entire uvea and is a combination of anterior and posterior uveitis.
Causes of Iritis
- Unknown: The exact cause of iritis is often unknown, but it may be triggered by an underlying condition or genetic factor.
- Autoimmune disorders: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriasis can increase the risk of developing iritis.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as herpes simplex and syphilis, can cause iritis.
- Injury: Trauma to the eye can cause iritis.
Risk Factors of Iritis
- Family history: Having a family history of autoimmune disorders or other eye conditions can increase the risk of developing iritis.
- Age: Iritis can occur at any age, but it is more common in adults over 40.
- Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of developing iritis.
- Previous eye surgery: Previous eye surgery can increase the risk of developing iritis.
Symptoms of Iritis
1. Eye Pain: Eye pain is a common symptom of iritis.
2. Blurred Vision: Blurred vision is a common symptom of iritis.
3. Redness and Swelling: The eye may become red and swollen due to inflammation.
4. Light sensitivity: The eye may become sensitive to light due to inflammation.
5. Floaters or flashing lights: Floaters or flashing lights in vision may be a symptom of iritis.
Preventions of Iritis
- Maintaining good eye health: Regular eye exams and good eye health habits can help prevent iritis.
- Managing underlying medical conditions: Managing underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, can help reduce the risk of developing iritis.
- Avoiding injury: Avoiding injury to the eye can help prevent iritis.
Diagnosis of Iritis
- Eye exam: A comprehensive eye exam is necessary to diagnose iritis.
- Slit-lamp exam: A slit-lamp exam is used to examine the anterior segment of the eye.
- Visual acuity testing: Visual acuity testing is used to measure visual impairment.
- Tonometry testing: Tonometry testing is used to measure intraocular pressure.
Treatment for Iritis
- Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Immunosuppressive medications: Immunosuppressive medications may be used to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage.
- Pain relief medication: Pain relief medication may be used to manage eye pain.
- Surgery: Surgery may be necessary in some cases to remove inflamed tissue or repair damage.
When to seek medical attention ?
- Sudden vision changes: If you experience sudden vision changes, such as blurred vision or double vision, seek medical attention immediately.
- Eye pain or discomfort: If you experience eye pain or discomfort, seek medical attention immediately.
- Redness or swelling in the eye: If you experience redness or swelling in the eye, seek medical attention immediately.
