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An intricate autoimmune condition called lupus can harm the eyes and other body organs and systems. Numerous vision-related problems can result from ocular manifestations of lupus, which emphasizes the significance of routine eye exams for lupus patients. This extensive blog post will explore five essential ways lupus might impact eye and vision health.
The immune system attacks healthy tissue in lupus, a chronic autoimmune inflammatory illness. Lupus can cause discomfort and inflammation in any part of the body, although it most commonly affects the skin, joints, heart, kidneys, and central nervous system.
Numerous conditions related to lupus can also impact the eyes. About one-third of people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most prevalent kind of lupus, experience eye symptoms.
Additional forms of lupus include:
Although the exact aetiology of lupus is unknown, scientists think that viruses, genetics, and specific environmental variables may contribute to the disease's development.
Moreover, lupus does not currently have a cure. Numerous treatments, such as immunosuppressants and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can be used to treat it.
You will almost certainly find images of red, swollen eyes and rashes on the eyelids of people with lupus if you search for "pictures of lupus eyes" online. In actuality, lupus can impact the eyes in several different ways.
Mild to severe eye problems are associated with lupus. Among the most prominent issues related to lupus eye are:
It's also crucial to remember that although lupus can cause damage to the eyes, the disease can occasionally cause side effects that can harm the eyes.
It's not uncommon for lupus patients to experience dry eyes.
Subsequent Sjögren's syndrome affects certain persons. That illness has an impact on the tear glands. It's secondary because it occurs in conjunction with lupus rather than as a standalone condition. It's an autoimmune illness similar to lupus, which means your immune system unintentionally targets healthy cells.
The immune system attacking the glands responsible for producing saliva in the mouth and tears in the eyes results in secondary Sjögren's syndrome. The amount of tears your body has to lubricate and nourish your eyes stops.
Artificial tears are available over-the-counter in liquid, gel, or ointment and can be used to treat dry eyes. Eye protection and humidifiers may also be helpful. Your eye doctor may advise surgery or a prescription medication if your symptoms are severe.
Your cornea, or the surface of your eyes, may become damaged if dry eyes are left untreated. It might also make your vision worse.
Dry eyes are one of the frequent ocular side effects linked to lupus. The glands that produce tears can be targeted by the autoimmune response in lupus, resulting in fewer tears and inadequate eye lubrication. Sjögren's syndrome, a secondary autoimmune illness that frequently coexists with lupus, exacerbates this dry eye problem. We will discuss the causes of dry eyes in lupus, possible symptoms, and management techniques for this part of ocular involvement.
Retinal vasculitis, another name for lupus that affects the blood vessels in the retina, can occur. If treatment for this inflammation of the retinal blood vessels is not received, it may lead to abnormal blood flow to the eyes, which could cause permanent vision loss or at least vision problems. We will talk about the origins, signs, and methods of diagnosis of retinal vasculitis in lupus patients. We will also discuss the potential treatment choices and the significance of early intervention in maintaining vision.
Another lupus-related ocular symptom is uveitis, defined by inflammation of the uvea, the central layer of the eye. The iris, ciliary body, and choroid may be affected by lupus-related uveitis, which can cause pain, redness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. We will explore the fundamental causes of lupus-related uveitis, how it affects vision, and the several treatment options, such as drugs and, in extreme situations, surgery.
Lupus can also affect the cornea, the transparent front portion of the eye. People with lupus may experience conditions like keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea. The signs of corneal involvement, possible side effects, and the significance of early diagnosis and treatment will all be covered in this section. We will also review lifestyle modifications and preventative strategies that assist in lowering the likelihood of corneal problems in lupus patients.
Another significant eye consequence linked to lupus is optic neuritis or optic nerve inflammation. Affected optic nerves can cause pain while moving the eyes, visual abnormalities, and even partial or total blindness. We will discuss the connection between optic neuritis and lupus, how to get a diagnosis and the different ways to treat this potentially blinding illness. The management of ocular neuritis in lupus patients will be emphasized, focusing on the importance of early identification and cooperation between ophthalmologists and rheumatologists.
Both lupus patients and their healthcare providers must comprehend the complex effects of the disease on eye and visual health. To effectively manage lupus-related visible manifestations, rheumatologists and ophthalmologists must work together, do routine eye exams, and identify symptoms as soon as possible. By exploring the nuances surrounding uveitis, dry eyes, corneal involvement, optic neuritis, and retinal vasculitis, this blog article seeks to equip lupus patients to take charge of their eye health and seek prompt medical attention as necessary.
Casey Optical Too, LLC takes pride in our longstanding commitment to providing top-quality vision care services to the Albuquerque community. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment and experience the best optometric care in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Your vision is our priority.
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