Uveitis encompasses many types of inflammatory conditions affecting the eye, with the potential to cause permanent vision loss if not addressed promptly. At EyeHealth Northwest, our specialized team provides comprehensive diagnosis and advanced treatment for all forms of uveitis, combining cutting-edge technology with personalized care to protect your vision.
What is Uveitis?
Uveitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the uvea, the middle layer of your eye containing three crucial structures: the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. This vascular layer serves multiple vital functions, including supplying blood to the retina and regulating light entry through the pupil.
When inflammation develops within the uvea, it creates a cascade of effects that can rapidly compromise vision. The condition manifests in four distinct forms, including anterior uveitis, intermediate uveitis, posterior uveitis, and panuveitis, each presenting unique challenges and requiring specialized treatment approaches.
Uveitis specialists are also trained to diagnose and treatment inflammation in other parts of the eye as well, including the sclera, conjunctiva, and orbital tissues. Some common diagnoses include scleritis, ocular cicatricial pemphigoid, and idiopathic orbital inflammation.
Ocular inflammation can be a result of an autoimmune process where the immune system attacks a certain part of the eye, and it can often be associated with systemic autoimmune conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, or sarcoidosis. It can also occur after infections with certain bacteria, viruses, or parasites, such as the herpes viruses or toxoplasmosis.
What are the Symptoms of Uveitis?
The symptoms of uveitis can develop suddenly and vary significantly based on the location and severity of inflammation. The most common initial symptoms include eye redness that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter drops, eye pain, and severe sensitivity to light that makes normal activities uncomfortable.
Many patients also experience blurred vision, floating spots in their field of view, or flashes of light.
Anterior uveitis typically presents with sudden, intense symptoms. Intermediate and posterior forms may develop more subtly. You might first notice an increase in floaters, gradual vision changes, or loss of peripheral vision.
Certain symptoms require emergency evaluation at EyeHealth Northwest. These include sudden severe vision loss, intense eye pain that doesn’t respond to standard pain relievers, a rapid increase in floaters, flashing lights, or any combination of these symptoms.
How is Uveitis Treated?
Treatment for uveitis requires a tailored approach based on the type, severity, and underlying cause of inflammation. At EyeHealth Northwest, we offer a full spectrum of therapeutic options, from first-line treatments to advanced interventions for complex cases.
Topical corticosteroids are given as the initial treatment for most cases of anterior uveitis. The timing, dosage, and tapering schedule require careful monitoring to prevent rebound inflammation while minimizing side effects. For intermediate and posterior uveitis, or cases that don’t respond adequately to topical treatment, systemic medications may be necessary. Oral corticosteroids can provide more comprehensive anti-inflammatory effects, while immunosuppressive medications offer long-term control for chronic cases.
Advanced injection therapies deliver medication directly to the affected area with minimal systemic exposure.These include periocular injections placed around the eye and intravitreal injections placed directly into the vitreous cavity. For patients requiring long-term treatment, sustained-release implants can provide months of medication delivery through a single procedure.
At EyeHealth Northwest, we combine advanced diagnostic capabilities with personalized treatment approaches to provide the comprehensive care that uveitis demands. Our commitment to staying current with the latest research and treatment options ensures that you receive the most effective therapy available.
If you’re experiencing eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, or any changes in your vision, don’t wait to seek care. Contact us today at (503) 344-5100 to schedule an evaluation with our uveitis specialists.
