If you have an autoimmune disease, you need more than a yearly eye exam for new glasses or contact lenses. Making a yearly appointment with an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive examination is invaluable for detecting eye problems that are more common when you have an autoimmune disease.

Dry Eyes

Having dry eyes can be difficult to detect in the early stages and you may even blame the problem on the weather, allergies or wearing contact lenses. You may frequently rub your eyes because they feel gritty and burn. An ophthalmologist can determine if you are not making enough tears to lubricate your eyes and the underlying cause.

Some instances of decreased tear production, such as chronic dry eye, are not caused by dysfunctions in your immune system. However, Sjogren's syndrome occurs when your immune systems attacks mucous-secreting glands throughout your body. No matter the underlying cause of dry eyes, it is not simply a nuisance problem. The lack of lubrication can contribute to significant damage to your eyes and compromise your vision.

Uveitis

Uveitis is inflammation in the eye, which can cause red, irritated eyes. As the inflammation increases, your eyes can become painful and you may notice significant changes in your vision. Uveitis is damaging to your eye and can cause permanent changes to your vision, but the underlying inflammation also increases your chances of developing other eye conditions, such as cataracts and retinal detachment. If you develop uveitis, this can be a sign your underlying autoimmune disease is escalating, or your current treatment plan is not as effective at controlling the disease process.

Medication Side Effects

Long-term use of certain medications for managing autoimmune diseases can cause vision problems. If you take hydroxychloroquine, you should have a baseline retinal exam when you first begin taking the medication. Although eye problems are rare, they can occur after taking hydroxychloroquine for many years at high doses.

After your baseline examination, you will need a comprehensive eye exam each year after the first five years of regular treatment with hydroxychloroquine. Routine, comprehensive eye exams can help your ophthalmologist detect problems quicker, when they are more likely reversible by stopping the medication.

Corticosteroids are also used for the long-term management of pain and inflammation or to suppress the immune system. The long-term use of corticosteroids can cause vision changes and increase the likelihood of developing cataracts or glaucoma.

Unfortunately, eye problems are more common if you have an autoimmune disease. To catch problems early, when they are more treatable, you need more than a basic eye exam. Sites like http://www.drgrantmdretinalspecialist.com can help you find a professional ophthalmologist to help you keep your eyes healthy.