Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and other areas of the body. It can cause pain and stiffness throughout the body, and in some cases, it can also affect the eyes.
Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Affect Eyes?
Yes, in some cases, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can affect the eyes. The primary eye complication of AS is iritis, which is an inflammation of the iris. It can cause pain, redness, and blurred vision. Other possible eye complications of AS include uveitis, scleritis, and episcleritis.
Iritis is the most common eye complication of ankylosing spondylitis. It is an inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye. Symptoms of iritis can include pain, redness, and blurred vision. It is usually treated with steroid eye drops or injections.
Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye. It can cause pain, redness, and blurred vision. Uveitis is usually treated with steroid eye drops or injections.
Scleritis is an inflammation of the sclera, which is the white part of the eye. It can cause pain, redness, and blurred vision. Scleritis is usually treated with steroid eye drops or injections.
Episcleritis is an inflammation of the episclera, which is the layer of tissue between the sclera and the conjunctiva. It can cause redness, pain, and blurred vision. Episcleritis is usually treated with steroid eye drops or injections.
In most cases, eye complications of ankylosing spondylitis can be managed with medication and regular ophthalmologist visits. If left untreated, however, they can lead to vision loss or other serious complications. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any eye symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis.