You have been diagnosed with either uveitis or iritis. This is where the coloured part of the eye (the iris) and other parts at the front of the eye are inflamed. This condition usually affects one eye. As the iris is so close to the lens, when inflamed, it can stick to the lens and cause further problems.
What causes uveitis/iritis?
This has been known to be triggered by a number of conditions, including arthritis. Often the cause is never found. However, as a precaution, x-rays may be taken together with routine blood tests. Try not to be alarmed by these procedures.
Signs and symptoms
The inflammation makes the eye appear red and angry looking. It causes the patient to suffer pain and photophobia (not being able to stand bright light). There may be watering of the eye, blurred and reduced vision and headaches.
Treatment
- The aim of the treatment is to dilate the pupil which will make your vision more blurred. This will reduce the inflammation and prevent the iris sticking to the lens and help with the pain.
- You will be prescribed anti-inflammatory drops and/ or ointment to help reduce the inflammation. These should not be stopped unless the doctor tells you to. They will probably be reduced very gradually.
It should also be noted that, in some very rare cases, there may be an allergic reaction to some of the prescribed drops, such as increased redness, swelling of the lids, itching and irritation.
Uveitis/Iritis can reoccur periodically. If you feel the onset, or your symptoms have worsened, please contact us immediately.
Contact Numbers
The Royal Oldham Hospital, Oldham
A&E Department - 0161 627 8923
Friday 5pm until Monday 9am
Oldham Integrated Care Centre
Eye Clinic - 0161 357 5101
Monday – Friday 9am - 4.30pm
Rochdale Infirmary, Rochdale
Eye Clinic - 01706 517109
Monday - Thursday 9am until 5pm. Friday 9am until 12.30pm
Eye Ward - 01706 901766
Urgent Care Centre - 01706 517005
Monday - Friday after 8pm. Friday 8pm until Monday 9am
Fairfield General, Bury
Eye Outpatients Clinic - 0161 778 2804
A&E Department - 0161 778 2600
Monday - Friday after 8pm. Friday 8pm until Monday 8am
Date of Review: April 2024
Date of Next Review: April 2026
Ref No: PI_SU_209 (BRO)