Inflammatory Eye Diseases: What You Can Do for Better Eye Health

Inflammatory eye diseases can sneak up quietly, then suddenly disrupt your vision, comfort and daily life. If you’ve been dealing with redness that won’t go away or blurry vision that feels like looking through fog, that inflammation is your eye’s way of saying something’s wrong. 

The good news? You’re not powerless. During Inflammatory Eye Disease Awareness Week (September 15-21), we put our focus on maintaining eye comfort and health. With the right care, awareness and proactive steps, you can protect your vision and keep your eyes feeling their best.

Common Types of Inflammatory Eye Diseases

Inflammatory eye conditions come in many forms, each with its own symptoms and risks.

• Uveitis, for example, affects the middle layer of the eye and can lead to serious vision loss if untreated. 
• Blepharitis causes inflammation of the eyelids, often linked to bacteria or skin conditions. 
• Keratitis inflames the cornea and may result from infections or injury. These conditions can be chronic or acute, but all require prompt attention.

What Causes Eye Inflammation?

Inflammation in the eye can stem from a variety of sources. Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus may trigger internal inflammation. External factors such as contact lens intolerance (CLI), eye trauma or viral infections can also play a role. Even environmental irritants—like smoke, pollen or harsh chemicals—can lead to flare-ups. Understanding the root cause is key to managing symptoms and preventing recurrence.

5 Tips for Preventing or Managing Inflammatory Eye Diseases

1. Practice good lens hygiene: Wash your hands before touching your eyes and clean contact lenses properly.
2. Limit screen time: Take regular breaks to reduce eye strain and dryness.
3. Use protective eyewear: Shield your eyes from dust, UV rays and potential injury.
4. Stay on top of chronic conditions: Manage autoimmune diseases with your healthcare provider to reduce flare-ups.
5. Schedule regular eye exams: Early detection is your best defense against long-term damage.

Can LASIK Help?

While Detroit LASIK center Lake Lazer Eye Center primarily uses SoftTouch LASIK or the SMILE Pro procedure to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness or astigmatism, it may indirectly benefit patients with certain inflammatory conditions. For example, those with chronic contact lens-related keratitis might find relief by eliminating the need for lenses altogether. (NOTE: LASIK is not recommended during active inflammation and should only be considered once the eye is stable and healthy.)

Your Eyes, Your Power

Managing inflammatory eye diseases starts with awareness and action. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition or simply want to protect your vision, regular communication with your ophthalmologist and others on your eye care team can help you stay on track.

If you’re considering more permanent vision correction, Lake Lazer Eye Center is here to help. Dr. Khambati and our team offer personalized care, advanced diagnostics and treatment plans tailored to your needs and vision goals. Because when it comes to your eyes, every decision matters—and every step forward counts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can stress cause eye inflammation? 

Yes, stress can contribute to systemic inflammation, which may affect the eyes indirectly. If you suspect stress-related inflammation, it is important to get stress under control.

Is eye inflammation contagious? 

Some forms, like viral conjunctivitis, are contagious. Others, like autoimmune-related uveitis, are not. Consult your ophthalmologist to get a definitive diagnosis.

Can diet affect eye inflammation? 

Anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens and omega-3s may help reduce symptoms of inflammatory eye disease. However, an eye exam is essential for determining what else should be done to bring the inflammation under control.

Are over-the-counter drops safe for inflammation? 

Some may help soothe mild irritation, but prescription drops are often needed to heal true inflammation and address the root cause.

Is it safe to wear makeup with eye inflammation? 

It’s best to avoid makeup until symptoms resolve to prevent further irritation or infection. The same may also apply to prescription contact lenses. In fact, contacts can often be the cause of the inflammation in the first place.

Does smoking worsen eye inflammation? 

Smoking can increase inflammation and slow healing, especially in conditions like uveitis. The habit can also encourage or exacerbate dry eye syndrome. 

With convenient locations in Clinton Township, Southfield and Milford, Lake Lazer Eye Center offers Metro Detroit-area patients comprehensive glaucoma care as well as up-front pricing and convenient and affordable payment plans for SoftTouch LASIK and the SMILE Pro procedure. Dr. Khambati has helped thousands of people from all over the world escape the restrictions of glasses and contacts through laser vision correction procedures. Detroit patients who are not candidates for vision correction can get our assistance with a contact lens evaluation or a selection of designer and specialty eyewear.