Tuesday, November 02, 2004

Iridocyclitis

Iridocyclitis is an inflammation of the iris (the colored part of the eye) and of the ciliary body (muscles and tissue involved in focusing the eye). This condition is also called "anterior uvetitis".
The condition can be marked by red eye, pain, photophobia (light sensitivity, literally "fear of light"), watering of the eyes and a decrease in vision. If only one eye is affected, shining light in the good eye can produce pain in the affected eye.

This is closely related to conjunctivitis, swelling of the mucous membranes around the eye.
Treatments include steroid, atropine, antibiotic or antiviral eyedrops.

Exposure to chemicals that irritate the eyes (such as lachrymators) can cause iridocyclitis or aggravate an existing case. Seek medical treatment if the condition does not clear up on its own.
If you are not certain whether a chemical was splashed in your eye or you are suffering from iridocyclitis you should consult a physician immediately.