Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the eyes. Lupus can cause a range of eye problems, from mild to severe, and can even lead to permanent vision loss in some cases.
One of the most common eye problems associated with lupus is dry eye syndrome. This occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep them moist, which can lead to discomfort, itching, and redness. People with lupus may also experience inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer of tissue that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids.
In addition to dry eye syndrome and conjunctivitis, lupus can cause other serious eye problems, including:
- Retinopathy: Lupus can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, the part of the eye that detects light and sends visual signals to the brain. This can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated.
- Uveitis: Lupus can cause inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that contains the blood vessels that supply the retina. Uveitis can cause eye pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.
- Optic neuritis: Lupus can also cause inflammation of the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss, blurred vision, and pain behind the eye.
- Scleritis: Lupus can cause inflammation of the sclera, the white part of the eye. Scleritis can cause eye pain, redness, and vision loss.
- Cataracts: Lupus can cause cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause blurred or distorted vision.
Treatment for lupus-related eye problems depends on the specific condition and the severity of the symptoms. For mild cases of dry eye syndrome or conjunctivitis, over-the-counter eye drops or prescription medications may be used to alleviate symptoms. In more severe cases, corticosteroid eye drops or other immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed.
For more serious eye problems, such as retinopathy or uveitis, treatment may involve laser therapy, surgery, or intravitreal injections. In some cases, patients may need to be referred to a specialist, such as a retinal specialist or uveitis specialist.
In conclusion, lupus can cause a range of eye problems, from mild to severe. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing permanent vision loss. If you have lupus and are experiencing any eye-related symptoms, it is important to see an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam. Your ophthalmologist can work with you and your rheumatologist to develop a treatment plan that addresses all of your needs.
At The Eye Center- Dr. Mahnaz Naveed Shah & Associates our team of eight ophthalmology subspecialists/ eye specialists, eye surgeons who are considered amongst the very best eye specialists in Karachi and in Pakistan, have the diagnostic and treatment capabilities to treat from the simplest to the most complex patients. We work hard to provide our patients with the best possible medical and surgical eye care, in a state of the art purpose built eye care facility. We offer the entire array of medical, laser and surgical treatments to help provide patients the best possible care in the most efficient, safe and ethical manner.
If you need an appointment, please contact us at 03041119544 during our working hours or leave us a WhatsApp message at +923028291799 and someone will connect with you. Walk-in appointments are also available for emergencies. We can also be reached through our web portal on www.surgicaleyecenter.org
