Autoimmune diseases affect millions of people worldwide, causing the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack its own tissues. While these conditions are often associated with joint pain, fatigue, and organ damage, many people don’t realize the significant impact autoimmune diseases can have on eye health. Since March is Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month, we’re shedding light on the connection between autoimmune conditions and vision, along with the specialized care options available at Komoka Optometry.
How Autoimmune Diseases Affect Eye Health
Certain autoimmune conditions directly impact the eyes, leading to symptoms such as dryness, irritation, inflammation, and even vision loss. Some of the most common autoimmune diseases that affect eye health include:
1. Sjögren’s Syndrome & Severe Dry Eye
Sjögren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects moisture-producing glands, including the lacrimal glands responsible for tear production. This results in severe dry eye disease, causing discomfort, blurry vision, and increased risk of corneal damage. Patients with Sjögren’s often struggle with chronic irritation and a gritty sensation in their eyes, requiring specialized treatment beyond artificial tears.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis & Uveitis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is widely known for affecting the joints, but it can also cause inflammatory eye conditions like:
- Uveitis (inflammation inside the eye), which can lead to light sensitivity, pain, and vision changes.
- Scleritis, a painful condition where the white part of the eye (sclera) becomes inflamed and red.
- Secondary Dry Eye, often due to systemic inflammation or the side effects of RA medications.
3. Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) & Eye Bulging
Thyroid conditions, particularly Graves’ disease, can lead to Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), which causes:
- Bulging or protruding eyes (proptosis)
- Dryness and irritation due to exposure
- Double vision from inflammation around eye muscles
- Eyelid retraction and difficulty closing the eyes completely
TED can cause both functional and cosmetic concerns, requiring careful management to reduce inflammation and preserve vision.
4. Lupus & Retinal Damage
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is another autoimmune disease that can cause eye complications such as:
- Retinal vasculitis, where blood vessels in the retina become inflamed, affecting vision.
- Light sensitivity (photophobia) due to inflammation of the cornea or sclera.
- Lupus-related dry eye, which contributes to discomfort and blurry vision.
5. Psoriasis & Iritis
Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are linked to iritis (inflammation of the iris), which can lead to:
- Eye pain and redness
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
Early detection and treatment of iritis are crucial, as it can cause permanent vision damage if left untreated.
How We Can Help at Eye Spa Komoka
At Komoka Optometry and Eye Spa Komoka we understand the unique challenges that autoimmune patients face when it comes to eye health. Many traditional treatments for dry eye and inflammation aren’t enough for patients with systemic conditions, which is why we offer advanced therapies to manage symptoms effectively.
✔ Lid Debridement – Clears blocked oil glands to improve tear quality using ZEST treatment.
✔ LipiFlow & Radiofrequency Therapy – Uses heat to unclog meibomian glands and restore healthy tear film
✔ Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy – Reduces inflammation and improves meibomian gland function
✔ Photobiomodulation (LLLT) – Stimulates cellular repair for dry eye relief
✔ Punctal Plugs – Helps retain natural tears for longer-lasting moisture
If you have an autoimmune disease and experience dry, irritated, or painful eyes, don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Early intervention is key to protecting your vision and quality of life.
📅 Book your dry eye consultation today. Your eyes will thank you!
