The information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult your PCP or eye doctor before starting any new therapies. To schedule a consultation, please contact us.

Eyes Red and Hurting? It Might Not Be Conjunctivitis

eye health Few things are as uncomfortable as eye pain. If your eye has been hurting and is visibly red, you may think you have conjunctivitis; however, your discomfort and issues may be caused by an inflammation of the iris in a condition known as iritis.

While iritis may clear up in some situations, it is best to see an eye doctor immediately. Because iritis can present as other eye conditions, you may not seek treatment right away. Untreated iritis can lead to vision loss.

Learn more about what iritis is, how to know if you have it, and how the eye doctor can help you treat it.

What Is Iritis?

Iritis is the inflammation of the iris, the colored part of your eye. There can be a variety of causes for this inflammation, including:

  • Injury, such as scratches, blunt force traumas, and even burns.
  • Infections that either originate in the eye or spread from other areas of your face, such as due to cold sores
  • Genetic causes, such as the inheritance of certain autoimmune diseases, can predispose you to iritis.
  • Certain diseases and conditions, such as Behcet’s disease, which is a common disease in Western countries, as well as rheumatoid arthritis
  • Certain medications

Make sure to speak to your doctor to learn more about if you’re at risk for iritis and what you can do to mitigate the potential of developing the condition.

What Are The Symptoms of Iritis?

Though symptoms may vary depending on the severity of your iritis and if it affects one eye or both, common afflictions of iritis include:

  • Eye pain
  • Light sensitivity
  • Headache
  • Blurry vision
  • Red eyes

Your symptoms may vary, and these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have iritis. Visiting your eye doctor is the best and only way to diagnose accurately. Iritis can present like other inflammatory eye diseases, such as conjunctivitis and uveitis.

Iritis Treatment in Santa Rosa, CA

Untreated iritis can worsen, increasing discomfort and making you susceptible to complications like glaucoma and vision loss. Iritis causes over 30,000 cases of blindness each year. Don’t delay in seeking help. Luckily, working with experienced and capable doctors is a certain way of finding relief and treatment.

The Eye Care Institute has a proven record of quality care. If you have issues or troubles regarding your eyes and vision, the Eye Care Institute is here to help. With a team consisting of six board-certified ophthalmologists, you can rest assured that you’re receiving the best in care.

To get started with an eye exam, contact the Eye Care Institute at 707-546-9800 to schedule an appointment today.

 

Accessibility Toolbar

Scroll to Top