Iritis
What is Iritis (Iridocyclitis)?
Iritis, or iridocyclitis, is an inflammation of the colored part of the eye, called the iris. This is caused by the immune system attacking the eye, usually due to an infection or an eye injury. Iritis is a serious condition that can lead to other vision problems if not treated quickly and properly.
What are the Symptoms of Iritis?
The symptoms of iritis include:
- Redness of the eye
- Pain in the eye
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Dark spots in the vision
- Decreased vision
What Causes Iritis?
Iritis can be caused by a number of things, such as infection, injury, or an autoimmune disorder. Other causes of iritis include:
- Eye trauma
- Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis
- A virus, such as herpes or Lyme disease
- An allergy or sensitivity to medications
- Uveitis, a type of eye inflammation that can occur with certain diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and traumatic arthritis
- Genetic factors
How is Iritis Diagnosed?
To diagnose iritis, your eye doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical examination of your eye, including visual acuity testing, a dilated eye exam, and tonometry. They may also order blood tests to check for autoimmune disorders. The results of the tests will help your doctor determine the best treatment for your condition.
How is Iritis Treated?
Treatment of iritis will vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Typically, treatment includes the use of topical or oral steroids to reduce inflammation, as well as other medications to reduce pain and discomfort. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair any damage to the eye caused by the condition. Your doctor can recommend the most appropriate treatment for your particular case.
Can Iritis be Prevented?
Iritis cannot be prevented, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the condition, such as avoiding eye trauma and irritants such as smoke, pollution, and dust. If you have an autoimmune disorder, it is important to keep your condition under control as this can help reduce your risk of developing iritis.