What is Eye Inflammation and Inflammatory Eye Disease?

Eye inflammation is common and can happen at any age. The duration of the eye inflammation and treatment will depend on the type and severity of the underlying disease, disorder, or condition. Most cases of eye inflammation can be successfully treated.

The causes of eye inflammation are varied. Also, different areas of the eye may be affected depending on the cause. Many causes of eye inflammation are treated successfully. 
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But some causes of eye inflammation, including inflammatory eye diseases, can threaten vision if not treated appropriately. Knowing which symptoms to watch for and when to see an eye doctor helps protect your vision.
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What is eye inflammation? 

Inflammation is the immune system’s natural response to infection, injury, or irritation. 

When it comes to the eye, inflammation can develop on the surface of the eye or on tissues inside the eye or around the eye. 

Causes of eye inflammation are varied and can include: 

• Allergies
• Injury 
• Infection 
• Systemic diseases
• Immune system activity

In some cases, the cause of eye inflammation is not known. Additionally, different inflammatory conditions can affect different parts of the eye and may require varied treatment. 
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What are some types of inflammatory eye disease? 

There are several types of inflammatory eye disease, including those listed below. 

Uveitis: This involves inflammation of the uvea and sometimes nearby eye structures. According to Prevent Blindness, uveitis can become serious and threaten vision. Symptoms can include redness, pain, blurred vision, floaters, and light sensitivity.

Keratitis: Keratitis involves inflammation of the cornea. It can have different causes, including infectious and noninfectious ones. Symptoms may include pain, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and vision changes.

Thyroid eye disease: Thyroid eye disease involves an autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation in the tissues surrounding the eye. According to the Endocrine Society, about 50% of patients with thyroid disease will develop inflammation around the eye. In addition to inflammation, thyroid disease may also cause double vision and bulging of the eyes. 
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What symptoms should you pay attention to?

Eye inflammation can cause different symptoms depending on which part of the eye is involved.  Symptoms that an eye doctor should evaluate include: 

• Eye pain 
• Light sensitivity 
• New floaters
• Swelling around the eyes
• Double vision 
• Persistent redness

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Do other health conditions cause inflammation in the eyes?

Certain types of medical conditions can cause inflammation in the eyes.  For example, some autoimmune or inflammatory diseases that cause inflammation elsewhere in the body may also affect the eyes.

With some autoimmune diseases, the immune system can attack healthy tissue. The reason why this abnormal response occurs is not always understood. But the immune response can also lead to inflammation of the eyes.
These conditions can include: 

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriasis
• Lupus
• Sarcoidosis

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How are inflammatory eye diseases treated? 

Treatment for inflammatory eye diseases vary depending on the specific location of inflammation and the underlying cause. An eye exam can help identify the type of inflammatory eye disease. Possible treatment options include:

• Management of the underlying medical condition: This can include medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Medications, such as corticosteroids, can help reduce inflammation.
• Artificial tears: These will not cure the underlying cause but can help relieve irritation.
• Antibiotic or antiviral treatment: Antibiotics or antiviral treatment may be helpful when an infection is the cause.
• Medications that suppress the immune system: These types of medications may reduce or stop the abnormal immune system response.  

Occasional irritation does not necessarily mean you have an inflammatory eye disease.  However, if you experience light sensitivity, new floaters, persistent redness, or eye pain, don't ignore those symptoms. 

If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors, please call our office at 508-746-8600.