Overview

Evaluation & Diagnosis

Treatment Options

Frequently Asked Questions

Find a Physician

Locations

Make an Appointment

For Physicians

Treatment Options

Prompt treatment is necessary to minimize any loss of vision. Eye drops, especially steroids and pupil dilators, are medications used to reduce inflammation and pain. For deeper inflammation, oral medication or injections may be necessary. Complications such as glaucoma, cataracts or new blood vessel formation (neovascularization) also may need treatment in the course of the disease. If complications are advanced, conventional or laser surgery may be necessary.

Uveitis in the front and middle part of the eye usually can be controlled by the frequent use of drops. Uveitis in the back part of the eye often is more difficult to treat.

What to Expect

The part of your eye affected by uveitis will determine the duration of the condition. With proper treatment, anterior uveitis can clear up in a matter of days to weeks. Posterior uveitis, on the other hand, may last several months or years and could permanently alter your vision.

If your uveitis responds poorly to corticosteroids or becomes severe enough to threaten your vision, you may need a different kind of medication, such as an immunosuppressive or cytotoxic agent. Vitrectomy—surgery to remove the jelly-like material in your eye (vitreous)—may sometimes be necessary for diagnosis and treatment of uveitis.

Uveitis can recur, so it's important to see your doctor if your symptoms reappear after successful treatment.

[top of page]