Uveitis is inflammation of the middle layer of the eye that is located between the retina and the sclera. This layer is called the uvea and is made up of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Let’s see what function each of these structures has:
- IRIS: It is one of the structures that we most easily identify because it is the one that gives color to our eyes. Its main function is to regulate the entry of light by adapting to external light conditions. The darker the place where we are, the more the iris will dilate to allow as much light as possible to enter and vice versa.
- CILIARY BODY: It is the structure that modifies the shape of the lens. Let us remember that the lens is, together with the cornea, one of the two lenses that our visual system has to focus images located at different distances. Unlike the cornea, the lens can vary its size by stretching or shrinking, this allows its power or graduation to be able to focus on both near and distant objects. The body or ciliary muscle is in charge of this variation in size.
- CHOROID: It is the outermost layer of the uvea, located closest to the sclera, and its main characteristic is that it is highly vascularized, that is, full of blood vessels that are responsible for nourishing the eye.
What are the causes of uveitis?
It is difficult to define what is the cause of uveitis. There is no single cause, although it is often related to some other infection in the body. Relationships have also been described between uveitis and viral processes, herpes, eye injuries, etc.
What does it cause?
Uveitis produces a noticeable redness of the eye, pain and blurred vision
What to do?
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible, who will thoroughly review your problem and decide on the most appropriate treatment.
You should never try to self-medicate as this could make the situation worse and cause more serious problems.
