When your eye becomes red, painful, and blurry, it might not be just allergies or fatigue—it could be uveitis, an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Also known as iris inflammation, it can strike suddenly and, if ignored, lead to permanent vision loss. This isn’t rare. About 15% of people with unexplained vision problems turn out to have uveitis, and many don’t realize it until it’s advanced.
Uveitis treatment depends on what’s causing it. Sometimes it’s an autoimmune issue like rheumatoid arthritis or an infection like herpes. Other times, no clear cause shows up—called idiopathic uveitis, a form of eye inflammation with no identifiable trigger. That’s why treatment isn’t just about eye drops. It often involves corticosteroids, powerful anti-inflammatory drugs used to reduce swelling in the eye, either as drops, pills, or injections. But long-term steroid use brings risks—higher eye pressure, cataracts, even glaucoma. That’s why doctors often add immunosuppressants, medications that calm the immune system to prevent recurring inflammation like methotrexate or azathioprine. These aren’t quick fixes, but they help you stay off steroids longer.
What you won’t find in most uveitis treatment guides? The hidden dangers of self-treating with OTC redness drops. Those might make your eye look less red, but they do nothing to stop the inflammation underneath. And skipping follow-ups? Big mistake. Uveitis can flare back even after symptoms disappear. That’s why tracking your eye pressure, getting regular retina scans, and knowing the warning signs—like sudden floaters or light sensitivity—are just as important as the meds you take.
Some people try herbal supplements or acupuncture to ease symptoms. There’s no solid proof they help with uveitis, and some—like high-dose fish oil or certain herbal teas—can interfere with your prescribed treatment. If you’re on immunosuppressants, your body’s already more vulnerable. Adding untested products can backfire fast.
Below, you’ll find real cases and clear advice from people who’ve been through this. From how to tell if your eye drops are working, to why some antibiotics make uveitis worse, to what to do when your vision doesn’t improve after weeks of treatment—these posts cut through the noise. No fluff. Just what works, what doesn’t, and how to protect your sight before it’s too late.
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.