Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Eye: Symptoms, Treatment, and Where to Get Care in Delhi

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect more than joints; eyes are commonly involved too. Many people living with RA in Delhi search for symptoms like dry eye, scleritis, episcleritis, and keratitis. If you have eye pain, redness or blurred vision alongside joint pain, prompt assessment is crucial. Amvision Eye and Child Care in Delhi offers experienced care for these conditions under Dr. Chirag Mittal, a recognized ophthalmologist.

What Rheumatoid Arthritis does to your eyes?

Rheumatoid arthritis sometimes triggers inflammation beyond the joints. Dry eye disease occurs when tear production falls or tears evaporate too quickly. Scleritis in RA is deeper and more painful than surface redness, often signaling active systemic disease. Episcleritis presents as a milder, more localized redness that usually resolves faster than scleritis. Rheumatoid keratitis involves the cornea and can threaten sight if untreated.

Common eye conditions linked to rheumatoid arthritis

Dry eye is the most frequent complaint and leads to burning, grittiness, and fluctuating vision. Scleritis causes deep, severe eye pain that may worsen at night or with eye movement. Episcleritis appears as bright red patches and commonly causes mild discomfort rather than severe pain. Keratitis presents with light sensitivity, pain, and possible white spots on the cornea.

How these problems are diagnosed

Ophthalmologists start with a detailed history and full eye exam. Specialized tests like Schirmer’s test measure tear production. Slit-lamp examination helps detect corneal damage and inflammation in the sclera. Blood tests and coordination with a rheumatologist are often required to assess RA activity and guide systemic treatment.

Treatment options and long-term care

Artificial tears and anti-inflammatory eye drops often relieve RA dry eye. More severe dry eye may need occlusive punctal plugs or prescription medications that increase tear production. Scleritis typically requires systemic anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes immunosuppressants, to control the underlying autoimmune process. Keratitis may need topical antibiotics, steroids, or systemic therapy depending on cause and severity. Close monitoring is essential to protect vision.

Why choose specialist care in Delhi

Access to a team familiar with both rheumatology and ophthalmology improves outcomes. Coordinated care ensures that systemic RA treatment and eye therapies work together. Amvision Eye and Child Care provide this collaborative approach with modern diagnostic tools and a patient-centred plan. Dr. Chirag Mittal combines surgical skill with experience managing inflammatory eye disease linked to autoimmune conditions.

What to expect at Amvision Eye and Child Care?

You will receive a thorough eye examination on the first visit. Tear function tests and detailed cornea and sclera evaluation are available in-house. If needed, the clinic arranges blood tests and communicates closely with rheumatologists in Delhi. Follow-up schedules are tailored to disease severity and response to treatment.

Practical tips for living with RA-related eye issues

Apply preservative-free artificial tears several times daily when recommended. Avoid smoky or windy environments that increase tear evaporation. Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce light sensitivity and protect the ocular surface. Report any new redness, increasing pain, or vision change immediately to your doctor.

How to spot red flags

Severe pain that wakes you at night, rapidly worsening redness, or sudden vision loss are urgent signs. Immediate evaluation can prevent permanent damage in cases of scleritis or keratitis. For residents of Delhi, fast access to specialists like Dr. Chirag Mittal at Amvision Eye and Child Care matters.

Local SEO focus: finding care in Delhi

Searching keywords such as rheumatoid arthritis eye, scleritis in RA, RA dry eye, and rheumatoid keratitis from Delhi will often surface clinics and specialists. Choosing a clinic with cornea and inflammatory eye disease expertise produces better results. Amvision Eye and Child Care is located centrally, offering quick appointments and integrated care for people living with RA.

FAQs — quick answers

What causes dry eye in rheumatoid arthritis?

Autoimmune damage and reduced tear production often lead to chronic dry eye in RA patients.

Can scleritis cause vision loss?

Yes, if inflammation extends or causes complications, scleritis can threaten vision without treatment.

Is keratitis common with RA?

Keratitis is less common but more serious and requires prompt specialist care.

When should I see an ophthalmologist?

See an eye doctor promptly if you notice persistent redness, severe pain, worsening light sensitivity, or any visual change.

Does steroid therapy help RA-related eye disease?

Steroids reduce inflammation, but they must be used under specialist supervision to balance risks and benefits.

Final words

Early recognition and specialist care reduce the risk of long-term complications. For Delhi residents seeking reliable treatment, Amvision Eye and Child Care and Dr. Chirag Mittal offer focused expertise in inflammatory eye disease linked to rheumatoid arthritis. Their coordinated approach with rheumatology services helps protect both joint health and vision.