When your immune system turns against your own body, it can attack almost anything—including your eyes. Autoimmune uveitis, a type of eye inflammation caused by the immune system mistakenly targeting healthy tissue in the uvea. Also known as inflammatory eye disease, it’s not just redness or irritation—it’s a sign your body is fighting itself inside the eye. This isn’t a simple infection. It’s a chronic condition that can lead to vision loss if left untreated, and it often shows up alongside other autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or sarcoidosis.
Uveitis, the general term for inflammation of the uvea—the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Also known as intraocular inflammation, it can be caused by trauma, infection, or, in many cases, an overactive immune response. Autoimmune uveitis is the most dangerous form because it doesn’t go away on its own. It flares up without warning, and symptoms like blurred vision, eye pain, light sensitivity, and floaters often get worse over time. Many people mistake it for pink eye or allergies until it’s too late. That’s why knowing the difference matters.
People with other autoimmune diseases, conditions where the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body. Also known as systemic autoimmune disorders, it includes lupus, multiple sclerosis, and ankylosing spondylitis. are at higher risk. If you’ve been diagnosed with one of these, regular eye checkups aren’t optional—they’re life-changing. Even if your eyes feel fine, inflammation can be silently damaging your vision. And if you’ve had uveitis before, you’re more likely to get it again. That’s why long-term management is key.
Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people respond well to steroid eye drops, but others need stronger drugs that calm the whole immune system. immunosuppressants, medications that reduce the activity of the immune system to prevent it from attacking healthy tissue. Also known as immune-modulating drugs, they include methotrexate, azathioprine, and biologics like adalimumab. These aren’t taken lightly—they come with risks like increased infection or liver stress—but for many, they’re the only way to stop vision loss. The goal isn’t just to reduce redness. It’s to stop the immune system from destroying your sight.
What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just theory. These are real stories about how people manage this condition, what treatments actually work, and which medications carry hidden risks. You’ll see how drug interactions can make things worse, why some people need to switch treatments, and how lifestyle choices can support—or hurt—your recovery. No fluff. No guesswork. Just clear, practical info from people who’ve been there.
Autoimmune uveitis causes dangerous eye inflammation that can lead to vision loss. Steroid-sparing therapies like Humira and methotrexate help control inflammation without the long-term risks of steroids. Learn how these treatments work and who needs them.