Uveitis is a form of eye inflammation that affects the middle layer of tissue in the eye wall. Symptoms usually come on quickly and include eye redness, pain and blurred vision. Most people who get uveitis are between the ages of 20 and 50, but it can affect anyone of any age. As common as uveitis is, it’s a serious condition that can be linked to underlying health problems like autoimmune disorders, infections or inflammatory conditions.
Let’s learn more about the different types of uveitis and the signs and symptoms to watch for.
Anterior Uveitis
Anterior uveitis affects the front part of the eye. It usually impacts the iris, which is why you might hear your eye doctor in Brooklyn NY refer to it as iritis. Anterior uveitis is the most common type of uveitis, accounting for 40-70 percent of all uveitis cases. Typically, it’s acute and treated with anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics. The main symptoms include light sensitivity, pain and redness.
Posterior Uveitis
Posterior uveitis is when the choroid, retina and optic nerve are all inflamed. This type of uveitis is seen in 15-22 percent of all cases, and it’s generally chronic. This means it can last for months or years at a time. Typically, patients experience “flare-ups” which means the eyes are inflamed for a while and then calm down. The underlying reason for posterior uveitis usually has to do with an underlying immune problem.
Intermediate Uveitis
Intermediate uveitis occurs when there is inflammation in the ciliary body, the front end of the retina and the vitreous. This is the least common type of uveitis, making up only 7-15 percent of cases. Nevertheless, the reason for this inflammation is unknown and believed to be associated with chronic inflammation in the body. Some people have chronic intermediate uveitis, which lasts longer than six weeks.
Panuveitis
In some cases, inflammation can affect the entire uvea, the pigmented layer of the eye. If this is the case, your retina specialist in NYC may diagnose you with panuveitis. This type of uveitis makes it more likely for a person to develop floaters, blurred vision and vision loss.
Treatment Depends on the Type of Uveitis
Treatment for uveitis depends on a number of factors, such as the severity of your symptoms, where the inflammation is occurring and how often it occurs. Your eye specialist in Brooklyn may recommend drugs that reduce inflammation, fight bacteria or affect the immune system.
Uveitis can be serious and lead to permanent vision loss. Schedule an appointment with Empire Retina Consultants to discuss your treatment options for uveitis.