Autoimmune diseases refer to a group of medical conditions where a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body.

While these conditions can affect any part of the body, it is not uncommon for them to manifest in the eyes.

Autoimmune diseases that can affect the eyes are often categorized as either ocular or systemic. Ocular autoimmune diseases specifically target the eyes, while systemic autoimmune diseases can affect the eyes alongside other parts of the body.

In this article, we will explore how autoimmune diseases manifest in the eyes and the impact they can have on your vision.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. However, it can also cause inflammation in the eye, a condition called scleritis.

Scleritis occurs when the white part of the eye (sclera) becomes inflamed, leading to redness, pain, and sensitivity to light.

In some cases, RA can also cause dry eye syndrome. This occurs when the eyes are unable to produce enough tears to keep them well-lubricated. Symptoms include itchiness, burning, and a gritty sensation in the eyes.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is another autoimmune disease that can cause dry eye syndrome. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the moisture-producing glands in the eyes and mouth.

While anyone can develop Sjogren’s syndrome, it is most common in women over 40.

In addition to dry eyes, Sjogren’s syndrome can also cause inflammation in the eyes, leading to blurry vision, light sensitivity, and eye pain.

If left untreated, this inflammation can also damage the cornea of the eye, leading to scarring and irreversible vision loss.

Lupus

Lupus is a systemic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs in the body, including the eyes. One of the most common eye complications of lupus is dry eye syndrome.

In some cases, lupus can also cause a condition called uveitis, which is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye.

Symptoms of uveitis include eye pain, redness, and blurred vision. In severe cases, uveitis can cause permanent damage to the eye, including cataracts, glaucoma, and even blindness.

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Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. While MS primarily impacts the spinal cord and brain, it can also cause vision problems.

One of the most common eye-related symptoms of MS is optic neuritis, which is inflammation of the optic nerve.

Symptoms of optic neuritis include blurred vision, eye pain, and a loss of color vision. While most people recover from optic neuritis without long-term complications, it can be an early sign of MS.

Graves’ Disease

Graves’ disease is a type of autoimmune disease that primarily affects the thyroid gland. However, it can also cause eye problems.

In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues around the eyes, leading to a condition called Graves’ ophthalmopathy.

Symptoms of Graves’ ophthalmopathy include bulging eyes, double vision, and sensitivity to light. In severe cases, it can also lead to vision loss.

While Graves’ disease cannot be cured, early detection and treatment can help manage its symptoms.

Behcet’s Disease

Behcet’s disease is a rare autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation in multiple parts of the body, including the eyes. When it affects the eyes, it can cause a condition called uveitis, as well as damage to the retina and optic nerve.

Symptoms of uveitis include sensitivity to light, eye pain, and blurred vision. While Behcet’s disease is difficult to diagnose, early detection and treatment can help prevent long-term complications.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the small intestine. However, it can also cause eye-related complications.

One of the most common eye problems associated with celiac disease is keratoconjunctivitis sicca, which is a fancy term for dry eyes.

Symptoms of keratoconjunctivitis sicca include eye redness, dryness, and irritation. In severe cases, it can also lead to corneal damage and vision loss.