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Uveitis Treatment

Uveitis is a serious eye condition that demands specialized treatment, and our experienced ophthalmologists are here to provide the expert care you need. At Longwood Eye & LASIK, we offer comprehensive diagnostic testing and advanced treatment options tailored to your needs. 

What Is Uveitis?

Uveitis is inflammation in one of the 3 middle parts of the eye (iris, ciliary body, and choroid), collectively known as the uvea. The only visible structure is the colored part of the eye (iris). 

The eye is shaped like a soccer ball made of sclera, which is a sturdy collagen structure that makes up the white part of the eye. Inside the back of the eye is a layer of retina which communicates with the optic nerve to transmit visual signals to the brain.  Between the sclera and retina are rich blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the eye, known as the choroid. Toward the front part of the eye, behind the iris, is the ciliary body, which produces some fluid for the eye, and also flexes to help the eye to see up close.

Without proper treatment, uveitis can cause permanent vision damage and even blindness. Some types progress rapidly, which is why prompt medical care is critical if you experience persistent eye pain and redness.

What Are The Symptoms Of Uveitis

While nearly everyone experiences occasional eye irritation from allergies or dryness, uveitis causes more persistent symptoms that include:

  • Eye pain
  • Redness
  • Light sensitivity
  • Blurry vision

If these symptoms don’t clear up on their own within a few days, schedule a thorough eye exam with an ophthalmologist right away.

What Causes Uveitis?

There are different types of uveitis, each of which may be caused by particular factors, such as bacteria, fungus, or a virus. In some cases, no known cause can be determined. In others, the problem can be traced to an eye injury or autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis. Potential causes of uveitis include:

Infections:

  • Viral infection such as Herpes Simplex or Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
  • Parasitic infection such as Toxoplasmosis
  • Bacterial infection such as Tuberculosis

Systemic inflammatory conditions:

  • Colitis or Lupus
  • A recent infection anywhere in the body that resolves, but triggers an inflammation response

Smoking may increase the risk of uveitis. This is due to the inflammation that cigarette smoke provokes in the blood vessels of the eyes and the entire body. It is recommended that you talk to your family doctor or other health care provider to get help to quit smoking.

Treatment Options For Uveitis

Uveitis requires immediate treatment to prevent serious complications. Your treatment plan depends on the type and location of inflammation:

For noninfectious uveitis in the front of the eye:

  • Steroid eye drops to reduce swelling
  • Dilating eye drops to reduce pain
  • Dark glasses to help with light sensitivity

For infectious uveitis:

  • Antibiotics or antiviral medications as appropriate

For inflammation at the back of the eye:

  • Steroid pills or other systemic medications
  • In difficult or resistant cases, medication or time-released implants are injected into the eye during a clinic visit

While surgery isn’t typically performed for uveitis itself, procedures may be necessary to address complications like glaucoma or cataracts.

Can Uveitis Be Cured?

Treatment for uveitis reduces active inflammation in the middle of the eye. However, in many cases, it is possible for uveitis to come back. A doctor may refer to inactive inflammation as being in remission. Depending on the cause of your uveitis, you may need to schedule follow-up exams, even after your condition has improved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uveitis

Uveitis should be treated as soon as possible. Some types progress rapidly and can cause permanent vision damage. If eye pain and redness don’t clear up within a few days, schedule an eye exam immediately.

Surgery is not generally performed for uveitis itself. However, surgical procedures may be recommended to treat complications such as glaucoma or cataracts that can develop as a result of uveitis.

Yes, uveitis can recur even after successful treatment. Your doctor may describe inactive inflammation as being “in remission.” Depending on the underlying cause, you may need ongoing monitoring and follow-up exams.

Uveitis itself is not contagious. However, some infections that cause uveitis (like certain viral or bacterial infections) may be transmissible. Your ophthalmologist can provide guidance based on the specific cause of your condition.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing ongoing eye inflammation or symptoms of uveitis, don’t wait. Early treatment is essential to protect your vision.

Schedule an appointment at Longwood Eye & LASIK in Greenfield, MA, today.

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Uveitis Treatment Doctors

Howard Ying, MD, PhD
Howard Ying, MD, PhD
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