Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. However, the effects of RA are not limited to the joints. It can also impact various organs, including the eyes.

What is the Cornea?

The cornea is the transparent outer layer of the eye that covers the iris and pupil. It is responsible for refracting light that enters the eye and plays a vital role in visual acuity.

The cornea is made up of several layers of cells, including the epithelium, stroma, and endothelium.

How Does RA Affect the Cornea?

RA can cause several eye problems, including inflammation of the cornea, scleritis (inflammation of the white part of the eye), uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye), and dry eye syndrome.

The inflammation that occurs in RA can spread to the eyes and cause swelling and pain in the cornea, leading to blurred vision and sensitivity to light. RA can also affect the production of tears, leading to dry eye syndrome.

The symptoms of corneal problems caused by RA include:.

Redness and pain in the eye
Sensitivity to light
Blurred vision
Feeling like there is something in the eye
Inability to wear contact lenses
Dry eye sensation

The treatment options for corneal problems caused by RA are dependent on the severity of the problem. Doctors may recommend eye drops to relieve swelling and inflammation, or corticosteroid eye drops to reduce the inflammation.

If the cornea is severely damaged, a corneal transplant may be necessary. Your doctor may also suggest systemic treatment options for RA, such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologic medications to control inflammation that could potentially impact the eyes.

Although it is impossible to completely prevent the effects of RA on the eyes, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing cornea problems:.

Regularly visit your eye doctor. Early detection is key in preventing serious eye problems.
Follow your RA treatment plan. Controlling inflammation is vital in reducing the risk of eye problems.
Use protective eyewear. Wearing sunglasses with ultraviolet (UV) protection can protect your eyes from UV rays, which can cause additional inflammation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, rheumatoid arthritis can have a significant impact on the eyes, particularly the cornea. It can cause inflammation, discomfort, and visual disturbances, affecting your quality of life.

Early detection, management of RA, and preventative measures can reduce the risk of developing serious eye problems. If you experience any symptoms, you should see your doctor right away, so they can diagnose and treat any issues before they become more severe.