Visual changes are likely to occur in individuals diagnosed with autoimmune disorders. But with so many of these conditions identified by the medical community, it can be hard to list down all of their possible effects on the eyes. Understanding the risk your specific autoimmune disorder poses to your vision is key to ensuring optimal eye health. Consult your eye doctor immediately if you start experiencing eyesight problems.
In this blog, Lumen Optometric, your trusted eye care center for neurolens® treatment, shares some of the autoimmune disorders that affect the eyes.
Lupus
It is a type of autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in many parts of the body, including the eyes. It can lead to eye-related conditions like retinal vascular lesions and optic neuropathy. Symptoms may include blurred vision, sore or dry eyes, and light sensitivity.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
It is a chronic multisystem disease with musculoskeletal manifestations. While it primarily targets the hands, arms, legs and feet, this inflammatory disorder can also affect the eyes. Dry eye syndrome, however, is the most common eye condition to accompany rheumatoid arthritis. A visit to an eye doctor can help determine necessary dry eye treatment to alleviate discomfort. Other eye-related conditions associated with rheumatoid arthritis include scleritis (inflammation of the white part of the eye) and uveitis (inflammation of the tissues in the eyewall).
Multiple Sclerosis
This autoimmune disorder affects the central nervous system. Given that the optic nerve is directly connected to it, an individual may be diagnosed with MS after the development of initial symptoms of vision problems. Optic neuritis, for instance, can bring a combination of color vision loss, blurred vision and double vision that usually affects only one eye.
Turn to Lumen Optometric for your immediate and ongoing optic needs. Our talented eye exam doctor is expertly trained to identify vision problems and customize effective solutions to improve your eye health. Our scleral optometrist is also ready to assist with your contact lens needs. Call (626) 921-0199 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.