Yes, psoriatic arthritis can affect your eyes. Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that generally affects people who have the skin condition psoriasis. While it mainly affects joints, it can also have effects on other parts of the body, including the eyes.
Uveitis is the most common eye condition associated with psoriatic arthritis. Uveitis is an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (the uvea), which includes the iris and the surrounding tissue. Symptoms can include redness, pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and dark, floating spots in your vision.
Less commonly, people with psoriatic arthritis may develop conjunctivitis (inflammation of the lining of the eye and eyelid) or scleritis (inflammation of the white part of the eye).
If you have psoriatic arthritis and experience any changes in your vision or eye discomfort, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. Regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist may also be recommended if you have psoriatic arthritis, as eye involvement can sometimes occur before joint symptoms appear.
Does psoriatic arthritis cause blurred vision?
Yes, psoriatic arthritis can potentially cause blurred vision, usually as a result of an associated condition called uveitis. Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, and can occur in people with inflammatory conditions like psoriatic arthritis.
Symptoms of uveitis include redness, pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. In some cases, uveitis may also cause floaters (small dark spots or squiggles that move in your field of vision). If left untreated, uveitis can cause serious complications, including vision loss.
It’s important to note that while psoriatic arthritis can be associated with uveitis, not everyone with psoriatic arthritis will experience this eye condition. If you have psoriatic arthritis and notice changes in your vision or eye discomfort, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.
Keep in mind that other eye conditions can also cause blurred vision, and they may or may not be related to psoriatic arthritis. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any concerns about your vision or eye health.
Article by Dr. Naveen Bhadauria