Autoimmune conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. While these conditions can affect joints, skin, digestion, or energy levels, they can also affect the eyes. A regular eye exam helps monitor your vision and may identify eye-health changes before they become more serious.
Dr. Tim Rioux provides comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages. As a board-certified optometrist with residency training in eye disease, he takes the time to review your health history, discuss new symptoms, and help you understand what your eyes may be telling you.
Which autoimmune conditions can affect the eyes?
Many autoimmune conditions can have eye-related symptoms or complications. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and thyroid disease can contribute to inflammation or changes in eye comfort and vision.
The specific effects vary from person to person. Some people may experience occasional dryness, while others can develop inflammation that requires prompt treatment and ongoing monitoring.
For example, Graves’ disease can be associated with thyroid eye disease, which may cause eye redness, dryness, pressure, light sensitivity, double vision, or eyes that appear more prominent. Learn more about how thyroid conditions can affect vision and why new symptoms deserve attention.
Common eye symptoms to watch for
Not every eye symptom is caused by an autoimmune condition, but it is important to tell your eye doctor if you have an autoimmune diagnosis and notice changes such as:
- Dry, gritty, burning, or watery eyes
- Redness or swollen eyelids
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Eye pain or pressure
- New floaters
- Double vision
Autoimmune disease can also be associated with uveitis, an inflammation inside the eye. Uveitis can cause redness, pain, floaters, light sensitivity, and vision loss if it is not treated. Sudden vision changes, significant eye pain, or a red, light-sensitive eye should be evaluated right away.
Why ongoing eye exams matter
A comprehensive eye exam is about more than checking whether you need new glasses. At our practice, your exam can include vision testing, an evaluation of the retina and optic nerve, and screening for eye conditions that may have few early symptoms.
Routine monitoring is especially valuable if you have a chronic autoimmune condition, take immunosuppressive medications, or use steroids. Steroids can be important for controlling inflammation, but long-term use may increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma. Regular exams help Dr. Rioux watch for these changes and coordinate next steps when specialized care is needed.
Partnering in your overall health
Your eye health is part of your overall health. Be sure to share your autoimmune diagnosis, medications, and any recent vision changes during your visit. This information helps your eye care and medical providers make more informed decisions about your care.
If you have an autoimmune condition or are experiencing new eye symptoms, schedule an eye exam today. Staying proactive can help protect your comfort, vision, and long-term eye health.
