Symptom 9. Eye Inflammation: A Rare but Significant Symptom of Ulcerative Colitis
While ulcerative colitis primarily affects the digestive system, it can also manifest in other parts of the body, including the eyes. Eye inflammation, also known as uveitis or iritis, is a rare but significant symptom that can occur in individuals with ulcerative colitis.
Eye inflammation in ulcerative colitis is believed to be an immune-mediated response, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the eye. The inflammation typically affects the middle layer of the eye, called the uvea, which contains the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. It can lead to redness, pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and even vision loss if left untreated.
The exact cause of eye inflammation in ulcerative colitis is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the underlying inflammation in the body. The immune response triggered by UC can extend beyond the colon and affect other tissues, including the eyes. It is important to note that not all individuals with UC will experience eye inflammation, and it tends to occur more commonly during disease flare-ups. (9)
