Recurring Iritis: Symptoms, Concerns, and Eye Health

Q: Recurring Iritis: Symptoms, Concerns, and Eye Health

Hello, Ms. <br>Chen：<br>1. <br>After stopping the eye drops, I keep seeing flashes around my eyes that last less than a second, but my vision is okay. <br>Initially, I experienced flashes, and two days later, my eyes became red and had a film over them, which made me worry that t

Recurrent iritis

Hello, Doctor Gao.
I was diagnosed with iritis last November, and I received treatment in Taiwan, which had a good effect on my eyes (though it really took two months to return to my original vision).
By the end of January, just before the Lunar New Year, I stopped using the eye drops Alcon Econopred Plus 1%.
Since I have been living abroad for a long time and due to the pandemic, I have not returned to Taiwan for a follow-up examination.
I would like to ask:
1.
After stopping the eye drops, I have been seeing flashes around my eyes that last less than a second, but my vision is okay.
Initially, when I got sick, I first saw flashes, and two days later, my eyes became red and had a film over them, so I am worried that it might return.
However, my vision is okay now, and I am unsure why.
2.
At the end of December, since my vision had not fully returned, I had to get a pair of -1.00 diopter glasses to see more clearly.
Recently, I find that I do not need to wear them anymore, but I am having trouble seeing things up close, and it feels like I might need reading glasses.
My vision keeps changing, and perhaps age is a factor, but I am concerned about these fluctuations.
3.
This week, I feel like my eyes are drier than usual.
Are these symptoms residual effects? A doctor abroad misdiagnosed my condition in November, so I have been wanting to return to Taiwan for a check-up, but with the ongoing pandemic, it has been difficult.
I hope to get some clarification on these issues.
Thank you.

Miss Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/29

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Ms.
Chen:
1.
After stopping the eye drops, I keep seeing flashes around my eyes that last less than a second, but my vision is okay.
Initially, I experienced flashes, and two days later, my eyes became red and had a film over them, which made me worry that the issue might return.
However, it has been some time now, and my vision is fine.
I am unsure why this is happening.
The flashes and iritis are not necessarily related.
Redness and blurred vision are more likely to be connected.
The flashes are more associated with vitreous degeneration and traction on the retina.
2.
At the end of December, since my vision had not returned, I had to get a pair of -1.00 diopter glasses to see more clearly.
Recently, however, I find that I don’t need to wear them; I can’t see well up close and feel like I might need reading glasses instead.
My vision keeps changing, which is concerning, perhaps due to age.
During inflammation, the prescription can change, so as the inflammation subsides, the previous prescription may return.
It is normal to start experiencing presbyopia around the age of 40, so there is no need to worry.
3.
This week, I feel like my eyes are drier than usual.
Are these symptoms residual effects? Inflammation can cause dry eyes, but this should improve over time.

Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
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I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2020/02/29

More Info

Hello,
Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your recurring iritis and the associated symptoms you are experiencing. It’s understandable to be concerned about changes in your vision and eye health, especially after having dealt with iritis previously. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Flashes of Light After Stopping Eye Drops: The flashes of light you are experiencing could be related to a few different factors. After an episode of iritis, it is not uncommon for patients to notice visual disturbances such as flashes or floaters. These symptoms can occur due to changes in the vitreous gel inside the eye or residual inflammation. Since your vision is otherwise stable, this may not indicate a serious issue, but it is essential to monitor these symptoms. If they worsen or are accompanied by other symptoms like increased redness or pain, it would be prudent to seek an eye examination as soon as possible.

2. Changes in Vision and Need for Glasses: The need for a new prescription, especially if you are experiencing difficulty seeing up close, could be a natural progression as you age. Presbyopia, the age-related loss of near vision, typically begins in the early to mid-40s. However, if you notice significant fluctuations in your vision, it could also be related to the previous iritis or other underlying conditions. It’s important to have a comprehensive eye exam to rule out any complications from your past condition or to address any new issues.

3. Dryness and Other Symptoms: Dryness in the eyes can be a common aftereffect of inflammation and can be exacerbated by environmental factors, such as living in a dry climate or spending prolonged periods in front of screens. It is also possible that the medications you were using may have contributed to this sensation. Artificial tears can be beneficial in alleviating dryness, but if the symptoms persist, it would be wise to consult with an eye care professional for further evaluation.
Given your history of iritis and the current symptoms, it is crucial to have a follow-up examination with an eye specialist. They can perform a thorough assessment to determine if there are any lingering effects from your previous condition or if new issues have arisen.
In the meantime, here are some general recommendations to help maintain your eye health:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help maintain overall hydration, including that of your eyes.

- Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help alleviate dryness and discomfort.

- Limit Screen Time: If you spend a lot of time on screens, take regular breaks to reduce eye strain (the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

- Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays and wind, which can exacerbate dryness.

- Maintain Regular Eye Exams: Regular check-ups are essential, especially after a history of eye conditions.

I hope this information helps clarify your concerns. Please prioritize scheduling an appointment with an eye care professional when possible, as they can provide personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. Take care, and I wish you the best in your eye health journey.

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