Crohn's disease and eye inflamation

by Sue
(Orange, CA)

I have been reading that eye inflamation can be cause from Crohn's Disease. I have not had any flare ups for about 3 years but about a year and a half ago, I bgan having chronic blood shot eyes and irritaion with a bit of swelling. I have been reading it could be a symptom of Crohn's. I have use every medication possible from the eye doctors and nothing works. Has anyone had these symptoms?

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Crohn's disease and eye inflammation NEW
by: Annette Young

Hello there,

Thank you for writing in and I'm sorry to hear that you have been having problem with your eyes.

Sadly, approximately 10% of those people who have inflammatory bowel disease do experience eye problems at some point or other.

Most of these conditions are treatable however and I assume that you have been to your doctor for treatment and not just taken over the counter treatments?

One of the more common eye conditions is called Uveitis. This is a painful inflammation of the uvea. This is the middle layer of the eye wall. symptoms include blurred vision, redness of the eye, some pain and there may be a sensitivity to light.The symptoms may start over a period of time or can happen quite dramatically. You may need specific eye-drops for this condition but you would certainly have to get a correct diagnosis as it can provide more serious complications

Other eye problems include:

Episcleritis which is the inflammation of the white of the eye. The tiny blood vessels become inflamed and dilated and as a result, this area of the eye becomes red. It can also be tender. The condition can often improve on its own or as the Crohn's disease improves.

Another condition is known as dry eyes. This can be as a result of a deficiency of vitamin A. it can lead to infections of the eye and irritation such as itching and burning. Supplements can help but antibiotics may also be necessary.

You should never take a risk with the health of your eye, the problem may well be as a result of the Crohn's disease but I would certainly persevere in getting help.

I wish you the best of luck,

Annette

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