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Uveitis Treatment: What You Need to Know

Gina, Master of Clinical Pharmacy
Published

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Uveitis Treatment: What You Need to Know

Uveitis is the swelling of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye.

Usually, Uveitis is not dangerous. 

However, if treatment for more severe cases of Uveitis is delayed, it can lead to vision loss. 

Early diagnosis and proper treatment can aid in preventing vision. 

The cause of Uveitis and the affected region of the eye determine the course of treatment.

Medication is usually the first line of treatment for Uveitis, but in rare instances, surgery may be suggested to treat extremely severe Uveitis.

In this article, we will discuss how Uveitis is diagnosed and different Uveitis treatments.

Medicines for Uveitis treatment

The treatment of Uveitis usually depends on its cause and type. 

Generally, there are four types of Uveitis depending on the site of inflammation in the eye.

These include Anterior Uveitis, Intermediate Uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, and Panuveitis.

Your doctor may examine your general health and medical history to know the exact cause of the condition.

They may prescribe eye drops to expand your pupil and then examine your eyes to look for Uveitis and other eye conditions. 

Suggestion:
Even if your symptoms go away, do not stop using medications before consulting your doctor or ophthalmologist. If you stop taking your medication in the middle of the treatment, your symptoms can come back.

Also, treating the underlying condition causing the Uveitis may help in overcoming Uveitis symptoms

Reducing ocular inflammation, minimizing eye pain, stopping the progression of the damage to your eyes, and helping you regain your lost vision are the goals of Uveitis treatment.

Your doctor may recommend medications, such as Corticosteroids, Mydriatic eye drops, and immunosuppressants.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, commonly known as steroids, are typically the first treatment for Uveitis.

They inhibit the normal functioning of the immune system to prevent the release of the chemical that causes the inflammation. 

They can be administered in many ways, like eye drops, injections, and pills.

Steroid eye drops are effective in treating the type of Uveitis that affects the front of the eye and is non-infectious. 

You may need an injection if you get Uveitis in the back or middle of your eye or if eye drops don’t improve your symptoms.

In most cases, you will only need one injection during the most serious symptoms.

Steroids are also available in the form of oral pills or tablets. They are the most potent forms of the medicine and typically used to treat Posterior Uveitis (affecting the back of the eye). 

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Mydriatic eye drops

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Person holding eye drop bottle in hand

Mydriatic eye drops may be prescribed alongside steroid medication if you have Anterior Uveitis which affects the front of the eye.

These eye drops relax the muscles in your eyes. 

This, in turn, expands your pupils and reduces discomfort. 

They can also lower your chance of getting Glaucoma.

Immunosuppressants

These medications are prescribed when you do not respond to other medications.

Immunosuppressants function by regulating the immune system and interfering with the inflammatory process.

They include Azathioprine, Cyclosporine, and Mycophenolate.

Medications can effectively treat Uveitis. Read our article: What is the Best Uveitis Medication: Your Path to Recovery to explore different Uveitis medications.

Surgery for Uveitis treatment

In rare cases, your doctor may perform a Vitrectomy or implant surgery to treat your Uveitis.

Vitrectomy

Usually, Vitrectomy is only advised if you have severe or recurrent Uveitis or if certain infections are the source of the disease.

Your vitreous humor (a portion of the gel inside your eye) can be removed by an eye surgeon. 

After the surgeon removes anything from your eyes, air, gas, or liquid is pumped in to replace it, but ultimately, your eye’s own fluid will fill the empty area.

Implant surgery

A surgeon performing surgerySource: Raul_Infante_Gaete_From_Pexels
Surgeries and operations can help treat ED

To relieve inflammation, a small capsule is injected into your eye that delivers steroids gradually. 

It is used to treat the more difficult-to-treat Uveitis of the back of your eye.

Approximately the implant lasts for two to three years.

Warning:
Your eyesight can become temporarily blurry after using eye drops. Avoid using machinery or driving until your vision returns to normal.

Conclusion

Uveitis is a type of eye inflammation that needs to be addressed immediately.

Early diagnosis and proper Uveitis treatment are necessary to prevent any complications.

The mode of treatment depends upon the type and severity of Uveitis.

Anterior Uveitis, Intermediate Uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, and Panuveitis are the four common types of Uveitis affecting different regions of the eyes.

Medications, such as corticosteroids, Mydriatic eye drops, and immunosuppressants, are the most commonly utilized methods to treat Uveitis.

In extreme cases, your doctor may perform surgery like a Vitrectomy and implant surgery to treat Uveitis.

It is always advisable to consult a doctor immediately for timely management if your symptoms persist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best treatment for Uveitis?

Corticosteroid eye drops are the best and first line of treatment for Uveitis. 

Can Uveitis be cured?

Yes, Uveitis can be cured effectively with medications and surgery.
Commonly employed medications include corticosteroids, Mydriatic eye drops, and immunosuppressants.

Can Uveitis be cured naturally?

Although Uveitis needs medical treatment, its symptoms can be overcome naturally with certain natural supplements like Vitamin D and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Can someone with Uveitis lead a normal life?

Yes, one can live a normal life with Uveitis. 
However, since Uveitis can cause discomfort or momentary vision loss, you may need to rest until you feel better.

How can you stop the recurrence of Uveitis?

Treating any underlying medical issues you may have will help prevent Uveitis from coming back. 
Uveitis prevention may also include avoiding particular medications such as the antibiotic Rifabutin.

Citations:
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