Uveitis is an eye condition that results when you have inflammation in the tissues of the uvea. This condition typically results in significant pain, irritation and light sensitivity. You may also experience blurry vision. If left untreated, uveitis may cause high eye pressure or other serious eye conditions. Medicated eye drops will often treat the condition, but some people may wish to talk with their doctors about the possible benefits of using bilberry to treat or prevent uveitis.
The Uvea
The layer of vascular tissue between the white part of your eye and the back inside lining of your eye is called the uvea. The uvea also consist of the ciliary body, a part of the eye that releases the aqueous fluid that fills the front of your eye, the choroid layer which is a portion of the retina that lines the back of the eye, as well as the iris, the colored part of your eye. Inflammation of these tissues results in uveitis, but if you have inflammation in the iris, doctors refer to this as iritis.
Bilberry
Bilberry is a fruit similar to blueberries. The fruit and its extract contain a number of beneficial components, such as anthocyanosides that provide antioxidant qualities which help protect the cells throughout your body. Bilberry also contains a beneficial amount of vitamin C, a necessary nutrient for health. Bilberry also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce tissue inflammation, explains the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. This may aid in reducing the inflammation from uveitis.
Dosage
The dosage for bilberry extract will vary for each person, and your doctor can help you determine the amount you should take. Bilberry dosages range from 80 to 480 mg, broken into two or more doses daily. If you take diabetic medications or anticoagulants that thin your blood, your doctor may not recommend bilberry, or she may recommend a short period of bilberry use at a lower dose.
Considerations
If you have eye pain, light sensitivity or any other indication of uveitis, you should contact your doctor immediately. Do not start using bilberry for uveitis without first discussing the supplement with your doctor, and continue taking prescribed medication to treat uveitis unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
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