Discovering The Ways How Rheumatoid Arthritis Can Affect Your Eyes
In addition to the joint swelling and pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, other signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can occur due to injury to the skin and nerves. Some of the dilemmas that may develop in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis include harm to the heart and lungs and difficulties with the eyes.
Some eye conditions that can develop include:
* Dry eyes. A condition called Sjogren’s disease is a popular condition that coexists with rheumatoid arthritis. Dry eyes often show that this condition may be present.
* Inflammation of the inner eye. This condition (uveitis) can lead to blindness if left untreated. The indicators include redness, pain and tearing of the eye.
* Inflammation of the membrane covering the white segment of the eye. The indicators of this condition (episcleritis), are a red eye, sometimes go with tearing and irritation. This condition requires forceful treatment.
* Cataracts. Steroid therapy is usually the root cause of arthritis in arthritis patients. It is best to lessen steroid doses whenpossible to help avert this condition. Cataracts in patients with rheumatoid arthritis are treated just as they would be in every other patient.
* Maculopathy. This condition is now unusual. It is typically caused by anti-malarial therapy in rheumatoid patients. Patients who obtain hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine for their rheumatoid arthritis may be at risk for maculopathy and should be screened by an eye doctor every six months.
Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers who suffer from dry eyes, pain or redness of the eyes, extreme tearing, blurred vision or sensitivity to light should be assessed by an ophthalmologist immediately. It is also advised that the patient remain in contact with a rheumatologist. For more information on arthritis joint pain visit here.
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