Skip to main content

Inflammatory Diseases

Condition

Inflammatory Diseases

Inflammatory diseases of the eye include Uveitis, which affects the middle, colored portion of the eye (iris), and Scleritis, which affects the white part of the eye. Both conditions are inflammatory in nature and can cause redness and swelling, and sensitivity to light.

An Overview: Uveitis and Scleritis

At a Glance:

  • Uveitis: The middle layer of the eye’s surface is called the uvea. It contains the iris, choroid, and ciliary body. The uvea can become inflamed for a number of reasons, including: bacterial or viral infection, eye injury, or autoimmune disorder.
  • Scleritis: The sclera is the large white part of the eye. There are two main types of Scleritis: Anterior Scleritis, which occurs at the front of the eye, and Posterior Uveitis, which occurs at the back of the eye. There are many potential causes of this condition, some of which are unknown.

Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Uveitis

  • Symptoms include: light sensitivity, redness of the eye, and/or floaters in vision
  • Causes include: bacterial or viral infections, eye injuries, and/or autoimmune disorders

Scleritis

  • Anterior Scleritis can present with redness and irritation throughout the entire sclera. There may also be tender bumps on the white of the eye, the most severe of which can be very painful and damage or destroy the sclera. In some cases, Scleritis can cause pain in the jaw, face, or head.
  • Posterior Scleritis is less common and may present with pain and tenderness. This form of Scleritis could lead to very serious conditions such as Retinal Detachment and Closed-Angle Glaucoma.
  • Though the cause is often unknown, Scleritis is frequently connected with autoimmune diseases. It could be linked to arthritis (joint swelling and stiffness), lupus or other connective tissue diseases, eye infections, inflammatory bowel disease, Sjogren’s syndrome, granulomatosis, or scleroderma.

Treatments for Uveitis and Scleritis come in the form of eye drop medications:

  • Anti-inflammatory steroid drops
  • Antibiotic or antiviral drops
  • Drops to dilate the pupil in combination with dark glasses to give the iris a chance to rest

Inflammatory eye conditions are very treatable, but the treatment must be matched to the condition. If your eyes are irritated, red, or you are experiencing extra light sensitivity or floaters in your vision, schedule a professional eye exam. 

Many eye conditions are not serious and are easily treated, with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Others can be extremely serious and lead to chronic conditions if left untreated. Regular eye checkups are the best way to identify problems before they get too serious and to manage existing conditions for better vision and comfort.

DSC_7317

Why CODET for Inflammatory Eye Conditions?

CODET is among the most prestigious eye centers in the world. We believe that every individual is different, with eyes as unique as they are essential. It is of constant and permanent importance to us that our patients receive personal, professional care so that we can fully evaluate their conditions and advise them appropriately. 

Our surgeons are leaders in their specialty fields and are supported by hand-picked staff who are specially trained to deliver optimal care for our patients. Care is provided in our state-of-the-art facilities, offices, and operating rooms using nothing but the best in diagnostic and surgical technology and equipment, so you are fully supported before, during, and after your procedure.

What is an Inflammatory Disease?

Quick and easy look on these eye conditions.

View Video

Schedule an appointment with one of our specialists today!