How does rheumatoid arthritis affect the eyes?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation and pain. While it mainly affects the joints, RA can also affect other parts of the body, including the eyes. Here are some ways rheumatoid arthritis can affect the eyes:

1. Dry Eyes (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): RA can lead to decreased tear production, resulting in dry eyes. This dryness can cause discomfort, irritation, and blurry vision.

2. Scleritis: Scleritis is an inflammation of the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye. RA patients are more prone to developing scleritis, which can cause pain, redness, and swelling in the affected eye.

3. Episcleritis: Episcleritis is a less severe inflammation of the episclera, the thin layer covering the sclera. It can occur in people with RA and often appears as a pink or red patch in the white part of the eye.

4. Corneal Ulcers: Rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of corneal ulcers, which are open sores on the cornea (the clear front part of the eye). Corneal ulcers can be painful and can lead to vision impairment if not treated promptly.

5. Retinal Vasculitis: In rare cases, RA can lead to retinal vasculitis, an inflammation of the blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye). Retinal vasculitis can cause floaters, blurred vision, and vision loss.

6. Cataracts: RA has been associated with an increased risk of developing cataracts, which are a clouding of the natural lens of the eye. Cataracts can cause blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night.

7. Glaucoma: RA patients may be at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. Glaucoma can lead to peripheral vision loss and, if left untreated, can result in blindness.

It's important for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis to be aware of these potential eye complications and to have regular eye examinations with an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Early detection and treatment of any eye problems can help protect and preserve vision.