An Insight Into Uveitis

What is it?

Uveitis refers to inflammation within the eyeball itself. This inflammation can affect one or multiple parts of the eye: the iris (coloured part of the eye), the ciliary body (behind the iris), and the back of the eye. Uveitis is a very painful condition that can lead to vision-threatening problems in the eye such as cataracts or glaucoma.

What causes it?

There are many possible causes of uveitis, including trauma to the eye, infection in the eye, and the animal’s own immune system mistakenly attacking the structures in the eye. Uveitis can also be secondary to other eye diseases or diseases elsewhere in the body. Tests may be recommended to try and determine the cause.

How is it treated?

Anti-inflammatory medications are typically used in the form of eye drops and/or oral medications. If an underlying cause can be found, it will also be treated.

What to expect after starting treatment?

Pain and inflammation should be kept under control with medication. Many cases of uveitis will recur if treatment is stopped and thus require long-term medication and monitoring.

How can we help?

Our experienced veterinary team can diagnose and treat uveitis.