What is uveitis and what does it affect?

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris, ciliary body and choroid. It can cause pain, redness and blurred vision, and may affect one or both eyes.

The condition may develop suddenly or gradually, and can be acute, recurrent or chronic. If not treated promptly, inflammation can damage delicate eye structures and increase the risk of complications such as glaucoma, cataracts or permanent vision impairment.

What are the different types of uveitis?

Uveitis is classified according to the part of the eye that is inflamed.

Anterior uveitis: inflammation predominantly affecting the anterior segment of the eye.
Intermediate uveitis: inflammation affecting the vitreous and the peripheral retina.
Posterior uveitis: inflammation limited to the posterior segment of the eye, particularly the retina and choroid.

What causes uveitis and who is at risk?

Uveitis can arise due to autoimmune disease, infection or injury, although in many cases no clear cause is identified. It may occur as an isolated eye condition or as part of a wider systemic illness.

Common causes and risk factors include:

Autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and sarcoidosis.
Infections including herpes viruses, syphilis and tuberculosis.
Eye trauma or recent surgery.
Genetic predisposition, including HLA-B27 association.
Reduced immune function or underlying inflammatory disease.

In a significant proportion of patients, the condition is classed as idiopathic, meaning no specific trigger is found despite investigation.

What are the symptoms of uveitis?

Uveitis typically presents with a combination of visual disturbance and ocular discomfort. Symptoms may vary depending on which part of the eye is affected.

Common symptoms include:

Eye pain, often worsening with light exposure.
Redness in one or both eyes.
Blurred or reduced vision.
Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Floaters or dark shapes moving across vision.
Reduced ability to focus clearly.

Symptoms may fluctuate, particularly in chronic forms, but persistent changes should always be assessed.

How is uveitis diagnosed?

Uveitis is diagnosed through a detailed eye examination performed by an eye specialist, often supported by targeted investigations to identify underlying causes.

Assessment may include:

Slit-lamp examination to assess inflammation in the front of the eye.
Dilated fundoscopy to examine the retina and optic nerve.
Measurement of intraocular pressure to detect secondary glaucoma.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess retinal involvement.
Blood tests to screen for autoimmune or infectious causes.
Chest imaging where systemic disease such as sarcoidosis or tuberculosis is suspected.

A tailored diagnostic approach is often required, as uveitis can be linked to a wide range of systemic conditions.

How is uveitis treated?

Treatment for uveitis aims to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms and prevent complications. The choice of therapy depends on severity, location and underlying cause.

Common treatment options include:

Corticosteroid eye drops to reduce local inflammation.
Oral corticosteroids for more severe or widespread disease.
Immunosuppressive medications for chronic or autoimmune-related uveitis.
Biologic therapies in resistant or systemic inflammatory cases.
Antiviral or antibiotic treatment if infection is identified.
Dilating eye drops to relieve pain and prevent adhesions.

Treatment is often adjusted over time to balance inflammation control with potential side effects.

What practical steps help manage uveitis?

Uveitis management requires ongoing care and attention to both treatment adherence and overall eye health.

Helpful practical measures include:

Attending scheduled follow-up appointments.
Using prescribed medications exactly as directed.
Wearing sunglasses to reduce light sensitivity.
Avoiding eye rubbing or strain during active inflammation.
Managing any underlying systemic condition with appropriate specialist care.

Consistent monitoring helps reduce the risk of recurrence and long-term complications.

When should you see a doctor for uveitis symptoms?

You should seek urgent medical assessment if you experience symptoms suggestive of uveitis, as early treatment is important to protect vision.

Warning signs include:

Sudden or worsening vision changes.
Persistent eye pain or redness.
Significant sensitivity to light.
Increasing floaters or visual disturbance.
Any rapid deterioration in sight.

If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your health, visit Miss Eleni Vrizidou’s Top Doctors profile to book a consultation.

References

NHS. Uveitis overview and management
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Eye conditions guidance
World Health Organization (WHO). Global eye health facts and prevention strategies
American Academy of Ophthalmology. Uveitis Preferred Practice Pattern
Foster CS et al. Diagnosis and treatment of uveitis. Ophthalmology (peer-reviewed review literature)