Inflammation of the iris of one or both eyes; if acute, may give rise to Glaucoma, either because white cells produced in response to inflammation build up and block channel which drains fluid from front chamber of eye, or because iris sticks to front of lens, which also prevents drainage of fluid; if long-standing, may give rise to Cataract. Condition mainly affects young adults, but is not at all common; often it is a complication of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, sarcoidosis, or even syphilis (see Sexually Transmitted Diseases), but more often it has no obvious cause. Symptoms are redness and discomfort, slight blurring of vision, and sometimes a Headache.
If symptoms include headache and pain in affected eye, consult your doctor if there is no improvement in 2 hours. Because of the risk of glaucoma, an eye specialist should be seen as soon as possible; steroid drops may be necessary to reduce inflammation and prevent iris sticking to lens, but they do not get to the root of the problem. Iritis tends to be a recurrent constitutional problem, so constitutional treatment from an expert homeopath should be sought.
Specific remedies to be taken - hourly for up to 10 doses in acute attack
- At first signs of inflammation Aconite 30c
- If back of iris threatens to stick to lens Mercurius corr. 30c
- If inflammation occurs after an eye operation Rhus tox. 30c
Self-help: if iritis is associated with autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis, for example), changing to a more alkaline diet may prevent recurrence. |
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