When we think of arthritis, we often picture joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. But what many people don’t realize is that arthritis can also have effects beyond the joints—including on the eyes.
So, does arthritis affect eyes? The short answer is yes. Certain types of arthritis, particularly autoimmune forms, can lead to inflammation in and around the eyes, sometimes resulting in serious vision complications if left untreated.
Let’s take a closer look at the link between arthritis and eye health.
How Can Arthritis Affect the Eyes?
There are several types of arthritis known to cause eye-related problems, most commonly:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
- Reactive Arthritis
These inflammatory types of arthritis can lead to various eye conditions, such as:
Common Eye Conditions Linked to Arthritis
1. Dry Eye Syndrome
This is one of the most common eye issues in people with arthritis, especially RA. Inflammation can affect the tear glands, reducing tear production and causing:
- Burning or gritty feeling in the eyes
- Blurry vision
- Redness and irritation
2. Scleritis
Scleritis is inflammation of the white part of the eye (sclera) and is often associated with RA. It can cause:
- Deep eye pain
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Potential vision damage if untreated
3. Uveitis
Uveitis involves inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (uvea). It’s common in people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, and symptoms include:
- Eye redness
- Pain
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
4. Episcleritis
A milder inflammation of the outer eye membrane, episcleritis can also cause redness and discomfort, but usually doesn’t affect vision long term.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you have arthritis, keep an eye (literally!) on the following symptoms:
- Redness or irritation
- Blurred or reduced vision
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Sensitivity to light
- Excessive tearing or dryness
When to See a Doctor
Early detection and treatment are key. If you notice any of the above symptoms and have been diagnosed with arthritis, see an eye specialist immediately. Delayed treatment can lead to long-term damage, especially in conditions like scleritis or uveitis.
Your rheumatologist and ophthalmologist may work together to manage inflammation with:
- Prescription eye drops (anti-inflammatory or steroid-based)
- Immunosuppressive medications
- Artificial tears for dry eyes
- Regular eye exams for ongoing monitoring
Managing Eye Health with Arthritis
To protect your eyes while managing arthritis:
- Stay consistent with arthritis medications
- Keep up with regular eye exams
- Use lubricating eye drops if dry eyes are present
- Protect your eyes from UV light with sunglasses
- Report new symptoms promptly
Final Thoughts
So, does arthritis affect eyes? Yes—particularly autoimmune forms. From dry eyes to potentially vision-threatening inflammation, arthritis-related eye issues are serious but manageable when detected early.
If you’re experiencing eye discomfort along with arthritis symptoms, don’t ignore it. At SwastyaPhysio, we take a holistic approach to care—working closely with specialists to manage all aspects of your condition, from joint health to vision wellness.