Is There Really Such A Thing As Eye Arthritis?

Having arthritis alone is already a big problem. But what if you learned that due to your arthritis, you will also develop some eye problems? This is a double whammy and can be a big problem later on.

Imagine having to limp and grope around because your knee is hurting and you can’t see where you’re going, you’ll probably end up hurting your knee more if you bump into something.

The problem may start off with the condition called iritis. Iritis means the inflammation of the eye’s layer of blood vessels. Iritis is not an infection but is related to the immune process of our body, unfortunately its cause is unknown yet.

If left untreated, iritis may evolve to cataracts or glaucoma and cause tremendous damage to the nerves of the eye. In severe cases, this may result to permanent loss of vision.

Unfortunately though, iritis can not be easily diagnosed and it would take an ophthalmologist to properly detect and diagnose if it is indeed present. Initial treatments may include the use of specially formulated eye drops with steroids. Sometimes, the need for stronger medications may arise but usually the steroid eye drops will suffice.

Although only a small number of arthritic patients experience eye problems, it is best to have it treated at its early stage. So if you notice that your eyes are getting pink or red, don’t be embarrassed to have it checked out. Going blind may even be more bothersome than being seen as a person who over reacts.