Anterior uveitis is one of the most common and important eye conditions seen in clinics. It affects the front part of the uvea mainly the iris and sometimes the ciliary body. Because this area controls how much light enters your eye, inflammation here can become painful and potentially dangerous if not treated quickly.

What Causes Anterior Uveitis?

In many cases, the cause is unknown, and doctors call it idiopathic.
However, some common triggers include:

1. Autoimmune Disorders

Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body, including:

Ankylosing spondylitis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Sarcoidosis

Behçet’s disease


2. Infections

Certain infections can irritate the eye’s tissues:

Viral (Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster)

Bacterial (Tuberculosis, Syphilis)

Parasitic (Toxoplasmosis)


3. Trauma

An injury to the eye , even weeks after — can trigger inflammation.

4. Stress and Systemic Illness

In some people, stress or an underlying immune imbalance can worsen flare-ups.

Common Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Anterior uveitis usually comes on suddenly and may affect one or both eyes. Signs include:

Eye pain

Redness, especially around the iris

Blurred vision

Sensitivity to light (photophobia)

Watery or teary eyes

Dark floating spots (floaters)


Because these symptoms can mimic other eye problems, prompt testing is important.


Complications if Not Treated Early

Delaying treatment can lead to long-term or even permanent eye damage. Possible complications include:

Glaucoma (increased eye pressure leading to optic nerve damage)

Cataracts

Synechiae (iris sticking to the lens)

Permanent vision loss in severe cases


This is why uveitis is taken seriously in all age groups — including pregnant women, children, and adults.

How Is It Treated?

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing complications:

1. Corticosteroid Eye Drops

These are the first-line treatment to calm inflammation rapidly.

2. Dilating Drops

To relax the iris, reduce pain, and prevent the iris from sticking to the lens.

3. Oral or Injectable Steroids

Used when the inflammation is severe or doesn’t respond to drops.

4. Treating the Underlying Cause

Antivirals, antibiotics, or immune-modulating medications may be needed depending on the trigger.

5. Regular Eye Pressure Monitoring

Because steroid treatment and inflammation can raise eye pressure.


When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical care immediately if you experience:

sudden painful red eye

sensitivity to light

blurred vision

Early diagnosis and treatment usually lead to a full recovery.