Uveitis is defined as inflammation of the middle eye layer or uvea. The uvea includes the iris or colored region of the eye, choroid and ciliary body. It is important to note that the uvea is essential since it include several veins and arteries that transport blood to regions of the eye required for vision.
What are the causes?
Uveitis has a variety of possible causes including infections caused by bacteria, virus, fungus or parasites.
It might also be linked to systemic inflammatory conditions or develop after sustaining eye injuries. In most cases, though, the root cause of uveitis is unknown.
What are the signs?
- Blurry vision
- Eye redness
- Eye pain
- Light sensitivity
The condition can permanently damage the eyesight and even result to blindness. Remember that it can rapidly develop. It is vital to consult a doctor for a complete eye assessment if these symptoms are present, particularly if a red, painful eye does not settle rapidly. If not treated, the condition can impair vision permanently.
Management of uveitis
Since uveitis is a serious condition, prompt treatment must be started. For a non-infectious case, the doctor might prescribe eye drops that include steroids to lessen the swelling along with a dilating eye drop to reduce the eye pain.
Antibiotics are also given for individuals suffering from infectious uveitis. Dark-colored glasses must be used to help with light sensitivity. In severe cases, other drugs might be prescribed.
The complications linked with the condition include cataracts, glaucoma, fluid inside the retina, abnormal growth of the blood vessel and vision loss.