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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Waupun, WI

I have worn glasses since third grade. I am 68 years old and over the last 7 months I have developed a lot of eye floaters. It looks like a bunch of nats. I also have blurry areas along with itchy eyes that feel like sand in them. I do use lubricanting eye drops for dryness. I maybe developing cataracts. My question is do I tell this to my Rhumatologist or go to my eye doctor?

August 27, 2024
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A MyLupusTeam Member

Diane, please see your ophthalmologist right away to make sure there's nothing serious going on. Retinal problems can cause large numbers of floaters.

August 28, 2024
A MyLupusTeam Member

I would consider an ophthalmologist who is well versed in Lupus eye issues.
Best wishes to you.

August 27, 2024
MyLupusTeam

Eye problems are fairly common in people with lupus and can range from mild to severe. Here are some key points:

Common Symptoms
- Scratchy, gritty feeling
- Blurred vision
- Watery eyes
- Bulging eyes
- Partial vision loss

Potential Eye Conditions
1. Eyelid Rash: Rashes typically seen on other parts of the body can also Show Full Answer

Eye problems are fairly common in people with lupus and can range from mild to severe. Here are some key points:

Common Symptoms:
- Scratchy, gritty feeling
- Blurred vision
- Watery eyes
- Bulging eyes
- Partial vision loss

Potential Eye Conditions:
1. Eyelid Rash: Rashes typically seen on other parts of the body can also appear on the eyelids.
2. Retinal Problems: Often related to how well lupus is controlled. Severe cases can result in vision loss.
3. Vasculitis of the Retina: Inflammation of the blood vessels in the retina, leading to decreased vision.
4. Scleritis: Inflammation of the sclera, causing severe pain, redness, and blurred vision.
5. Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea, causing sensitivity to light, pain, and blurred vision.
6. Eye Infection: Increased risk due to immunosuppressive medications, requiring prompt treatment.
7. Treatment-Associated Eye Problems: Steroids and antimalarial drugs can lead to high eye pressure, glaucoma, and cataracts.

Recommendations:
- Regular Checkups: Annual comprehensive eye exams, especially if using medications like hydroxychloroquine.
- Prompt Treatment: Seek immediate care for severe symptoms to prevent permanent damage.

Medications:
- NSAIDs: For mild scleritis.
- Corticosteroids and Immunosuppressants: For severe cases of scleritis and other conditions.
- Antibiotics: For bacterial eye infections.

Important Notes:
- Hydroxychloroquine Users: Should have a baseline eye exam and regular monitoring for retinal damage.
- Steroid Users: Monitor for high eye pressure and other complications.

By working closely with an ophthalmologist and your healthcare team, you can manage these eye problems effectively.

August 27, 2024
A MyLupusTeam Member

Because you have floaters I suggest you see a retinogist. I see one once a year and it has been wonderful.

August 27, 2024
A MyLupusTeam Member

I have lots of eye problems. Given your age and shortsightedness the floaters are probably not related to SLE. You need to get the blurry checked out and the itchiness could be a simple eye condition too.
Definitely go to eye hospital. Things like age related macular degeneration are very common as we get older.

August 31, 2024

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