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Uveitis

Uveitis is an inflammation inside of the eye- specifically of the uvea, which is the layer of tissue between the retina and the back of the eye (sclera). The uvea is responsible for supplying the eye with nutrients. Within the uvea is the arteries, veins and capillaries that circulate the blood used by all of the structures of the eye. As you can imagine, an inflammation in this tissue can affect your eye sight.

There are signs and symptoms associated with uveitis. These include pain (a dull aching sensation), sensitivity to light, blurry vision, redness to the white portion of the eye and blurry, hazy vision. Typically, the symptoms will increase over time without treatment.

The causes of uveitis vary. In most cases, we never know what causes it. However, systemic conditions like arthritis; fungal, bacterial or viral infections of the eye; parasites or trauma can cause recurrent attacks of uveitis.

Treatment of uveitis is aimed at decreasing the inflammation. This is achieved with topical steroids and sometimes oral steroids or steroid injections in the eye. If the condition is caused by systemic conditions, treatment for the specific condition also helps. If left untreated, uveitis can cause serious complications of the eye.