Uveitic Glaucoma: What It Is and How to Manage It

If you’ve heard the term uveitic glaucoma, you might wonder how uveitis and glaucoma are linked. In simple terms, uveitic glaucoma is a rise in eye pressure that occurs because of inflammation inside the eye. The inflammation comes from uveitis, which is an irritation of the middle layer of the eye. When the fluid that normally drains out gets blocked by inflamed tissue, pressure builds up and can damage the optic nerve.

Why does this matter? High eye pressure can lead to permanent vision loss if it isn’t treated quickly. The good news is that most people can keep the condition under control with the right mix of medication, monitoring, and lifestyle tweaks.

Why Uveitis Leads to Glaucoma

Uveitis can affect the front, middle, or back part of the eye. When it hits the front (called anterior uveitis), it often causes swelling of the iris and the structures that help fluid drain. This swelling narrows the drainage pathway, so fluid stays inside the eye longer than it should. The longer the fluid hangs around, the higher the pressure gets.

In some cases, the inflammation creates tiny scar tissue that permanently blocks the drainage route. Even after the uveitis calms down, that scar can keep pressure high. That’s why doctors treat both the inflammation and the pressure at the same time.

Symptoms you might notice include blurry vision, eye pain, redness, and halos around lights. Some people feel a gentle ache behind the eye, while others get sudden, sharp pain. If you notice any of these signs, especially if you already have uveitis, call your eye doctor right away.

Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips

The first line of treatment targets the inflammation. Steroid eye drops, oral steroids, or even stronger immunosuppressive drugs can calm the swelling. Your doctor will choose the safest option based on how severe the uveitis is and how long you’ve had it.

At the same time, you’ll need medication to lower eye pressure. Common options include prostaglandin analogues, beta‑blockers, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, and alpha agonists. Sometimes a combination of two or three drugs works best. If drops aren’t enough, laser therapy or surgery may be recommended to improve fluid outflow.

Beyond meds, a few everyday habits help keep pressure stable. Avoid smoking, because it can worsen inflammation. Stick to a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and omega‑3 fatty acids – these foods support overall eye health. When you’re on steroids, work with your doctor to monitor blood sugar and bone health, as long‑term use can have side effects.

Regular eye exams are a must. Your eye doctor will check pressure, look for signs of optic nerve damage, and adjust treatment as needed. Even if your symptoms improve, keep up with follow‑up visits because uveitic glaucoma can flare up months later.

Bottom line: uveitic glaucoma combines two eye problems, but with prompt treatment you can protect your vision. Know the warning signs, stay on top of medication, and keep your appointments. If you catch the pressure rise early, you’ll have a much better chance of keeping your eyes healthy for years to come.