Ocular Inflammation

Overview

Inflammation of the eye, also known as uveitis, arises from inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (uvea), leading to pain, hazy vision, sensitivity to light, and redness. It can be caused by several factors, such as traumatic injuries, infections, and autoimmune disorders. The cause of inflammation is categorised according to where it occurs, and it may specifically affect certain areas of the eye. Inflammation is a sign that your immune system is fighting against something harmful. Therefore, this is a natural, protective defence mechanism and a sign that you should not ignore.

Other than uveitis, a common type of ocular inflammation, there are various other forms of eye inflammation, such as the following:

• Blepharitis is due to inflammation within the eyelids.
• Keratitis is inflammation in the cornea, the translucent outer part of the eye.
• Scleritis is inflammation affecting the white region of the eye (the sclera).
• Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the membrane that converges over the white section of the eye and the inside surface of the eyelids (conjunctiva).
• Optic neuritis is inflammation that specifically targets the optic nerve.

Common Signs of Uveitis

• Redness of the eyes
• Pain in the eye
• Eye floaters
• Poor vision

Although these are general signs, you still need a comprehensive diagnosis by an expert ophthalmologist like Dr Yako, who can confirm the type of inflammation and the reason for this immune response.

Possible Causes of Uveitis

There may be various causes, such as an inflammatory disorder, an infection, an adverse effect from a particular medication, a traumatic eye injury or previous eye surgery.

Treating Uveitis

Your specialist eye doctor, Dr Yako, will identify the underlying condition that is the main reason for inflammation. Identifying the cause is the key to a successful treatment plan. Treatment aims to alleviate swelling in the eye and resolve symptoms that lead to poor vision.