Iritis is inflammation of the pigmented inside lining of the eye (uvea), iris, or both.
(See also Overview of Eye Injuries.)
Iritis can develop after blunt eye trauma or a chemical burn, typically within 3 days. However, iritis can also develop without injury (see Uveitis).
Symptoms may include tearing, redness of the eye, and a painful ache in the eye. Usually people have some blurred vision or pain when exposed to bright light (photophobia). The pupil may be dilated or irregular in shape.
A doctor bases the diagnosis on the person’s history, symptoms, and the results of a slit-lamp examination.
Treatment of Traumatic and Chemical Iritis
Medications to relieve pain and decrease inflammation
Medications that dilate the pupil are instilled into the eye. The medication relaxes the muscles of the colored part of the eye (iris), which spasm painfully. These medications are called cycloplegics and include homatropine and scopolamine.
Corticosteroid eye drops (such as prednisolone) are often used to shorten symptom duration. Cycloplegics and corticosteroids are usually adequate to relieve pain, but if necessary, the person can also take acetaminophen.
