Uveitis Overview & Treatment Options
in Stockton, Modesto & Manteca, CA

A close-up shot of a man with red eyes from uveitis.

Uveitis Symptoms

Uveitis can present with various issues in one or both eyes. Common symptoms include:

  • Eye Redness: This is one of the most noticeable signs.
  • Eye Pain: This discomfort may affect daily activities and overall well-being.
  • Blurry Vision: This is a frequent complaint among patients. Inflammation can distort vision.
  • Spotty Vision: Patients might see floaters or spots in their line of sight.
  • Light Sensitivity: This symptom is known as photophobia. It makes it uncomfortable to be in bright light.
  • Decreased Eyesight: Severe uveitis can lead to significant vision loss if not treated promptly.

Uveitis Causes

Uveitis can have several causes. They are often categorized into infectious and non-infectious origins. Some of the most well-known reasons for this condition include:

  • Autoimmune DisordersConditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis can trigger uveitis.
  • Infections: Bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections can cause uveitis.
  • Injury or Trauma: Physical eye damage can lead to inflammation.
  • Genetic Factors: Some genetic predispositions can increase the likelihood of developing this condition.

Uveitis Diagnosis

Diagnosing uveitis starts with a thorough eye examination. A detailed patient history follows the exam to identify underlying disorders or triggers. From here, the diagnostic process typically involves:

  • Visual Acuity Testing: This test measures your eyesight at various distances.
  • Slit-Lamp Examination: A microscope with a bright light is used to look at the structures in the front of the eye.
  • Ophthalmoscopy: This allows the doctor to examine the back of the eye. The exam includes the retina and optic nerve.
  • Imaging: Physicians may use optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fluorescein angiography to get detailed images of the eye structures.
  • Laboratory Testing: Doctors may order blood or skin tests to identify systemic illnesses.
An ophthalmologist examining a woman’s eyes to diagnose uveitis.

Uveitis Treatment

Uveitis treatment reduces inflammation, relieves pain, and addresses the root cause. Common solutions include:

  • Corticosteroids: Physicians can administer these anti-inflammatory medications as eye drops, oral tablets, or injections.
  • Immunosuppressive Drugs: Our physicians may prescribe medicines that suppress the immune system for severe or chronic cases.
  • Antibiotics or Antivirals: We will use appropriate antimicrobial drugs if an infection is the cause.
  • Mydriatic Eye Drops: These help dilate the pupil and relieve pain by reducing muscle spasms in the eye.
  • Surgeries: In rare cases, surgical procedures might be necessary to treat complications or to inject medication directly into the eye.

FAQs

Can Uveitis Be Cured Completely?

Treatment can effectively manage and reduce symptoms. However, uveitis can sometimes be a chronic condition that requires ongoing care to prevent recurrences and complications.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Untreated Uveitis?

Untreated uveitis can lead to serious issues, such as:

  • Glaucoma
  • Cataracts
  • Macular edema
  • Permanent vision loss

Early intervention is crucial to prevent these outcomes.

Is Uveitis Contagious?

Uveitis itself is not contagious. However, if it is caused by an infectious agent such as a virus or bacteria, the underlying infection may be contagious.

Can Lifestyle Changes Help Manage Uveitis?

Lifestyle changes alone cannot cure uveitis but can support overall eye health. Maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and avoiding known triggers are all good complements to medical treatments.

Why Choose Central Valley Eye Medical Group?

The Central Valley Eye Medical Group physicians are all fellowship-trained, board-certified ophthalmologists. We are the only general ophthalmology practice in the San Joaquin Valley with exclusively fellowship-trained doctors. As such, we offer unparalleled expertise in diagnosing and treating complex eye conditions, including uveitis. 

Our commitment to excellence is also reflected in our ongoing involvement in teaching resident physicians about ophthalmic surgery, ocular anatomy, and medicine. We work hard to stay at the forefront of the latest advancements in eye care.

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Stockton

Central Valley Eye Medical Group (Stockton)

Toll-Free Number: 800-244-9907
Optical Department: 209-477-5578
Fax: 209-952-0553

Monday - Friday: 8:00am – 12:00pm, 1:00pm – 5:00pm

Manteca

Central Valley Eye Medical Group (Manteca)

Toll-Free Number: 800-244-9907
Optical Department: 209-239-0753
Fax: 209-239-0090

Monday - Friday: 8:00am – 12:00pm, 1:00pm – 5:00pm

Modesto

Central Valley Eye Medical Group (Modesto)

Fax: 209-579-1407

Monday - Friday: 8:00am – 12:00pm, 1:00pm – 5:00pm

Valley Laser & Surgery Center

Central Valley Eye Medical Group (Surgery Center)

Fax: 209-952-1174

Monday – Friday: 7:00am – 5:00pm

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