Discover How Rheumatoid Arthritis Can Affect Your Eyes

Besides the joint swelling and pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, other signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can occur due to injury to the skin and nerves. Some of the problems that may progress in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis include injury to the heart and lungs and issues with the eyes.

Some eye conditions that can develop include:

* Dry eyes. A condition called Sjogren's disease is a common condition that coexists with rheumatoid arthritis. Dry eyes often signal that this disease may be present.

* Inflammation of the inner eye. This condition (uveitis) can lead to blindness if disregarded. The symptoms include redness, pain and tearing of the eye.

* Inflammation of the membrane shielding the white portion of the eye. The symptoms of this condition (episcleritis), are a red eye, sometimes go with tearing and irritation. This condition requires forceful treatment.

* Cataracts. Steroid therapy is usually the root causes of rheumatoid arthritis in arthritis sufferers. It is best to reduce steroid doses whenpossible to help prevent this condition. Cataracts in patients with rheumatoid arthritis are treated just as they would be in every other patient.

* Maculopathy. This condition is now unusual. It is typically caused by anti-malarial remedy in rheumatoid patients. Patients who acquire hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine for their rheumatoid arthritis may be at risk for maculopathy and should be screened by an eye doctor every six months.

Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers who undergo dry eyes, pain or redness of the eyes, extreme tearing, blurred vision or sensitivity to light should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist immediately. It is also advised that the patient remain in contact with a rheumatologist. For more information on arthritis knee pain visit here.