Many autoimmune conditions have a direct and often overlooked impact on eye health. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjögren's syndrome, multiple sclerosis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and thyroid eye disease can all affect the eyes in significant ways. One of the most common and under-treated complications is chronic dry eye disease, which affects the vast majority of patients living with autoimmune conditions due to inflammation of the glands responsible for tear production. Left unaddressed, autoimmune related dry eye can cause significant discomfort, fluctuating vision, and long term damage to the ocular surface. We take this seriously and build dry eye treatment into every autoimmune care plan from the start.

Beyond dry eye, autoimmune conditions can cause uveitis, scleritis, corneal changes, and other forms of ocular inflammation that require careful monitoring and timely intervention. Patients taking Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) require annual retinal screening to detect early signs of toxicity before permanent vision changes occur, and we follow the latest screening guidelines to make sure nothing is missed. We work closely with your rheumatologist or treating specialist to provide coordinated care that protects your eyes while keeping your entire health team informed.