Uveitis

Overview

Uveitis is a type of eye inflammation that affects the middle layer of tissue in the eye wall (uvea). It is a common condition that can occur at any age, including children. The warning signs of uveitis often come on suddenly and can worsen quickly. These signs may include eye redness, pain, and blurred vision.

Types of Uveitis

There are several types of uveitis, including:

• Anterior uveitis: This type of uveitis affects the front part of the eye and is the most common type.
• Intermediate uveitis: This type of uveitis affects the middle part of the eye and is often associated with other eye conditions.
• Posterior uveitis: This type of uveitis affects the back part of the eye and can be more serious than other types.

Causes of Uveitis

The causes of uveitis are not always known, but they can include:

• Infection: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause uveitis.
• Injury: Trauma to the eye can cause uveitis.
• Autoimmune or inflammatory disease: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or sarcoidosis can cause uveitis.
• Unknown causes: In some cases, no cause for uveitis can be identified.

Risk Factors of Uveitis

The risk factors for uveitis include:

• Age: Uveitis can occur at any age, but it is more common in children and young adults.
• Family history: People who have a family history of uveitis are more likely to develop it.
• Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of developing uveitis.

Symptoms of Uveitis

Preventions of Uveitis

There is no surefire way to prevent uveitis, but there are some steps that can help reduce the risk of developing it. These include:

• Maintaining good eye health through regular check-ups with an eye care professional.
• Wearing protective eyewear when engaging in sports or other activities that could put the eyes at risk.
• Managing underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of developing uveitis.

Complications: Untreated uveitis can lead to complications such as:

• Permanent vision loss
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Blindness.

Diagnosis of Uveitis

Diagnosing uveitis typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. Some common diagnostic tests include:

• Eye exam to evaluate the eyes and detect any signs of inflammation.
• Fluorescein angiography to evaluate the blood vessels in the eyes.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to evaluate the layers of the retina.

Treatment for Uveitis

Treatment for uveitis depends on its severity and underlying cause. Some common treatment options include:

• Medications to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation.
• Surgery to remove inflamed tissue or repair damaged structures.
• Laser therapy to treat bleeding or retinal damage.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience any symptoms of uveitis, it is important to see a doctor promptly. Delaying treatment can lead to complications and worsen symptoms.