When your eyes are red, painful, and unusually sensitive to light, it’s easy to assume the irritation will pass. However, if these symptoms are caused by uveitis — inflammation within the eye — they may indicate more than just an eye condition. Uveitis can sometimes be the first sign of hidden issues affecting the rest of the body.
At Central Valley Eye Medical Group, our fellowship-trained, board-certified ophthalmologists specialize in diagnosing and treating complex eye diseases. Recognizing the possible causes of uveitis can be critical to protecting your vision and overall health.
What Is Uveitis?
Uveitis occurs when the uvea, the middle layer of your eye, becomes inflamed. Symptoms can develop suddenly and may include:
- Eye pain or redness
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Floating spots or shadows in your vision
If left untreated, uveitis can result in serious complications such as glaucoma, cataracts, or even permanent vision loss.
Health Conditions Linked to Uveitis
Because the eyes are closely connected to the immune system, inflammation inside the eye can sometimes reflect a systemic issue. Common links include:
- Autoimmune Disorders: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and sarcoidosis are among the conditions that can trigger eye inflammation.
- Infections: Viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections — such as shingles, syphilis, or toxoplasmosis — may cause uveitis.
- Systemic Diseases: Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and ankylosing spondylitis have all been associated with recurring uveitis.
- Other Causes: In some cases, certain cancers or genetic factors contribute to the development of uveitis.
Because the potential causes are so varied, seeing an experienced ophthalmologist is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Why a Thorough Eye Exam Matters
Your eyes often act as a window into other aspects of your health. Detecting uveitis early may help uncover an autoimmune disorder, chronic infection, or inflammatory disease before it progresses.
At Central Valley Eye Medical Group, we combine advanced diagnostic tools with a patient-focused approach to ensure you receive the care you need, whether the issue is isolated to the eye or connected to a larger concern.
Protect Your Vision and Your Health
If you’ve noticed redness, eye pain, or sudden vision changes, don’t assume they’ll go away on their own. Uveitis can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
Contact Central Valley Eye Medical Group today at 1-800-244-9907 to schedule an evaluation with our fellowship-trained ophthalmologists. With locations in Stockton, Manteca, and Modesto, we’re here to protect your sight and well-being.
