Lupus can also lead to severe and disabling eye conditions

Previously, we have discussed how lupus can impact your kidneys, your sense of smell, and your skin.  The autoimmune disorder can truly disrupt a person’s life, causing various health problems that occur suddenly and that can be difficult to treat.  One such health problem which is rarely discussed is that of severe eye conditions.  In a recent article in EmpowHer, the repercussions of untreated eye problems were documented, as were the varying conditions that may occur.  Although the article acknowledges that some of the eye problems can be attributed to the medications used to treat lupus, a significant amount of them arise because of the disease itself.

According to the article, approximately one third of lupus patients suffer from some type of eye problem.  These problems, if left undiagnosed and untreated, can lead to additional, more serious health issues, such as blindness and kidney damage.  As such, it is important for an individual living with lupus to monitor his/her vision and report any changes to a health care professional.  The changes can be rapid, sometimes even irreversible.  Although these conditions vary and may be difficult to spot, the article lists some of the more common problems that lupus sufferers face.

The first is external eye disease, which is marked by a rash developing over the eyelid or the occurrence of “dry-eye.”  This particular disease may also cause inflammation and the accumulation of fluid within the eye.  Second is anterior segment disease which occurs when the cornea has been worn down by inflammation and erosion.  This may cause severe pain, and sometimes, pink eye develops.  Next is posterior segment disease, which is when the retina and choroids are damaged and may lead to a complete loss of vision.  Finally, the article mentions neuro-ophthalmic disease, in which damage to the optic nerve and other nerves in and surrounding the eye can impact the eye’s motion.

If you have eye problems associated with your Lupus and are pursuing a social security disability claim, the good news is that these eye problems may give the SSA even more of a reason to approve your claim. Lupus is already recognized as a severely disabling disease, but with added problems like the abovementioned eye problems, a lupus claim will be considered very serious and deserving of lupus disability benefits.

But if you are experiencing such eye problems, it is obviously wise of you to seek treatment. If not treated, some of these eye conditions can lead to total blindness – which will be far more disabling in the long run. When you go in for a check-up, ask your doctor about your eyes and whether you should visit an ophthalmologist for additional treatment.  Also, discuss any medications you are taking to treat lupus, as some of them have been known to lead to eye conditions.  Lupus is a difficult disease to live with on its own.  Your eyes should not add to this already problematic condition.  Get them checked often, as a regular part of your lupus therapy, and monitor any changes.  Your eyes can be a window into your health, so treat them well.