Uveitis

The uvea is the middle layer of the eye between the sclera (white part of the eye) and the retina (light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye). It has 3 parts:

• Iris (the colored part of the eye)
• Ciliary body (the part of the eye that helps the lens focus)
• Choroid (the part of the eye that connects the retina to the sclera)

Different types of uveitis affect different parts of the eye.

• Anterior uveitis affects the iris at the front of the eye. It’s the most common type, and it’s usually less serious.
• Intermediate uveitis affects the ciliary body and the vitreous (gel-like fluid that fills the eye).
• Posterior uveitis affects the retina and the choroid at the back of the eye.
• Panuveitis affects all parts of the uvea, from the front to the back of the eye. 

Early uveitis symptoms usually start suddenly. Symptoms include:

• Blurry vision
• Floaters (small dark spots or squiggly lines that float across your vision)
• Eye pain
• Red eyes
• Sensitivity to light

If you notice these symptoms, see your eye doctor right away. Uveitis can cause vision loss if you don’t treat it.

Medicines called steroids can reduce inflammation in your eye. This can ease symptoms and prevent vision loss. Your eye doctor may prescribe steroids in a few different ways:

• Eye drops. Prescription eye drops are the most common treatment.
• Pills. Your eye doctor may also prescribe steroids as a pill.
• Injections. In some cases, your eye doctor might put the steroid in or around your eye with a small needle.
• Implants. If other treatments don’t work, your doctor might suggest surgery to put a small device called an implant into your eye. The implant gives you regular small doses of the steroid over time.

Steroids can have side effects and can increase your risk for cataracts and glaucoma. If you take steroids for uveitis, it’s important to get regular eye exams to check for signs of these problems.

Your treatment plan will depend on several factors, like which part of your eye is affected, and other health conditions you have. For example, your doctor may prescribe medicines to help control your immune system. You can work with your doctor to find the right treatments for you.