Uveitis is inflammation in the uvea, which includes the iris, choroid, and the ciliary body in the eye. It can also affect nearby parts of the eye, like the retina, vitreous, and optic nerve. (See eye diagram below.)
Sometimes uveitis is caused by bacteria or a virus in the eye. This is called infectious uveitis. Uveitis caused by something other than infection is considered non-infectious uveitis.
Non-infectious uveitis can be a chronic inflammatory condition. With non-infectious uveitis, there are several symptoms you may experience in one or both eyes.
Symptoms can include:
A sudden appearance or worsening of symptoms is called a flare. Flares can recur over time.
If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms, or if you are having a recurrence, talk to your doctor right away.
If you don’t have a uveitis-treating specialist, find one near you.
Non-infectious uveitis is caused by inflammation, which can be very damaging, therefore your doctor may prescribe one or more of the following medications.
Corticosteroids (also called steroids), such as prednisone, are medications that may be in the form of eye drops, pills, or even an eye injection or implant.
Biologics are medicines that work to control inflammation and treat inflammatory conditions in the body.
Your doctor may prescribe other medications such as an immunosuppressive agent. Or your doctor may recommend treating non-infectious uveitis with a biologic.
It’s important to keep in mind that all medications have side effects. Make sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your health care provider.
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