What is iritis

  Iritis is an inflammatory disease that occurs in the iris tissue of the eye. The etiology is often associated with autoimmune diseases. It tends to recur and can have a serious impact on vision.  The causes of iritis are multiple and are mainly related to abnormal immune function. There can also be infectious factors, especially viral infections, and eye surgery and blunt contusions of the eye are also common causes.  The iris is part of the uvea and is divided into anterior uveitis, middle uveitis, posterior uveitis, and total uveitis, depending on the location. The main manifestations are varying degrees of eye congestion, blurred vision, and decreased visual acuity, accompanied by dull pain or swelling in the eye. It is more pronounced at night when resting. On examination, inflammatory cells are seen in the eye, and there are also reactive fundus changes, such as macular edema, which can lead to a dramatic loss of vision.  There are three main principles of treatment: hot compresses, use of corticosteroids and or immunosuppressants, and active pupil dilatation. Early detection and standardized treatment is the key. The earlier the treatment, the greater the possibility of recovery and the more obvious the control of the disease. Strictly following the standard treatment prescribed by the doctor is an important way to reduce recurrent episodes of iritis. However, if treatment is not timely, or if the yellow person improperly reduces or discontinues the medication on their own, there is a high risk of more serious complications, including: secondary glaucoma, concurrent cataracts, and ocular atrophy.  Iritis is very prone to recurrence and should be seen as soon as there are signs of another episode to prevent irreversible and serious changes.