Rheumatoid arthritis: Can it affect the eyes?

Q: Can rheumatoid arthritis affect the eyes?

Don / No state given

Rheumatoid arthritis is primarily a bone and joint disease. However, rheumatoid arthritis occasionally affects other parts of the body — including the eyes. Eye conditions associated with rheumatoid arthritis may include:

• Dry eyes. Generally, artificial tears can ease the discomfort of dry eyes. It's important to note that dry eyes can also be a symptom of Sjogren's syndrome — an autoimmune disorder that's often associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

• Inflammation of the interior of the eye (uveitis). Uveitis may cause eye redness and pain, light sensitivity and blurred vision. Treatment may include corticosteroid eyedrops and anti-inflammatory medications.
• Inflammation of the white part of the eye (scleritis). Scleritis is usually characterized by constant, severe eye pain. Treatment may include corticosteroid eyedrops and anti-inflammatory medications.
• Inflammation of the membrane covering the white part of the eye (episcleritis). Episcleritis may cause sudden eye discomfort or redness. Treatment may include eye lubricants, corticosteroid eyedrops and anti-inflammatory medications.
• Glaucoma. Inflammation within the eye can affect the eye's drainage system, ultimately leading to glaucoma — a condition that can result in blindness. Depending on the type of glaucoma, signs and symptoms may include gradual vision loss, eye pain or blurred vision. Treatment may include medicated eyedrops or oral medications. In some cases, surgery is needed.
• Cataracts. Several factors may lead to clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye (cataracts), including inflammation within the eye and long-term use of topical corticosteroid drops — often prescribed to treat other eye problems associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Signs and symptoms may include cloudy, blurred or dim vision. The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery to remove the clouded lens.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis and experience eye pain, vision changes or other eye problems, consult an ophthalmologist for an evaluation. Also consult your rheumatologist. Early treatment can help prevent vision-threatening complications.

More From MSN Health & Fitness:

• Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet: Do Certain Foods Worsen Symptoms?
• Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain: 7 Ways to Protect Your Joints
• Bing Search: Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms