SoCal Eye – Uveitis Specialists in Long Beach
What is Uveitis?
Uveitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the uvea, a vital middle layer of the eye located between the outer white part (sclera) and the inner light-sensitive layer (retina). The uvea is composed of three main structures:
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Iris – the colored part of the eye that controls the size of the pupil and how much light enters.
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Ciliary Body – located behind the iris, this part helps produce the fluid inside the eye (aqueous humor) and controls the eye’s ability to focus.
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Choroid – a thin, vascular layer that supplies oxygen and nutrients to the retina.
When inflammation affects the iris, the most common form of uveitis, it is referred to as iritis or anterior uveitis. However, uveitis can occur in any part of the uvea and is often classified by location:
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Anterior Uveitis – affects the front part of the uvea (primarily the iris and ciliary body).
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Intermediate Uveitis – affects the area behind the ciliary body, including the vitreous (the gel-like substance inside the eye).
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Posterior Uveitis – involves inflammation of the choroid and/or retina at the back of the eye.
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Panuveitis – occurs when all parts of the uvea are inflamed.
Symptoms of uveitis can include eye redness, pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and floaters (small shapes that float across your field of vision). If left untreated, uveitis can lead to complications such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal damage, or even permanent vision loss.
Uveitis Treatment
Treatment of uveitis depends on the underlying cause, severity, and part of the eye affected. The goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, prevent tissue damage, and restore vision.
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Eye Drops (Corticosteroids) – Often the first line of treatment for anterior uveitis, steroid eye drops reduce inflammation.
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Dilating Drops – Used to relax the iris and ciliary body, helping reduce pain and prevent the formation of synechiae (scar tissue that can cause complications).
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Oral Medications – If inflammation is more widespread or doesn’t respond to drops, systemic corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed.
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Injections or Implants – In cases of severe or chronic uveitis, steroid injections around or into the eye, or even long-term implants that slowly release medication, may be necessary.
Since uveitis can be associated with underlying systemic conditions—such as autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis), infections (such as herpes, syphilis, or tuberculosis), or trauma—your doctor may recommend additional testing or referral to a specialist (e.g., rheumatologist or infectious disease expert) to determine the root cause.
Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial in preventing long-term damage and preserving vision.
SoCal Eye Consultation:
All treatment begins with a Consultation with a SoCal Eye Uveitis Specialist in Long Beach . Schedule an Appointment today at LAKEWOOD (562) 531-2020 | LOS ALAMITOS (562) 598-7728 or send us an Online Consultation Request
